Castello di Neive Barbaresco Albesani Santo Stefano 2019 (750ML)

97 KO / 94 DE / 17 JR

Fragrant and refined, this compelling red has aromas of woodland berry, ground pepper, camphor and tilled earth. Full-bodied and structured, the youthfully tense palate features ripe red cherry, pomegranate, star anise and ground nutmeg. Tight, fine-grained tannins and vibrant acidity provide support and energy. It needs several more years and shows great aging potential. Drink 2029–2039.-Kerin O’Keefe

The combination of the clay-rich soil in the lower part of Vigna Santo Stefano in the Albesani MGA seems to have enhanced the density and the refinement of this Barbaresco. Elegant and restrained with smoky woodland and coffee grounds to the fore, then an amazing wild strawberry, savoury rhubarb and olive-like umami character. The attack is firm, with chewy acidity and velvety tannins. Great mid-palate extraction shows this is intended for the long haul. It doesn't lack tension either, and will keep going strong for decades.-Aldo Fiordelli, Decanter

Sweet liquorice flavour. More intense and sweeter than the Serafino, Montestefano 2019 tasted alongside. Sweet then tannic. Still youthful.-Jancis Robinson