Vietti Barolo Castiglione 2018 (1.5L)

95 WS / 94 WA / 92 VM / 92 JS

A Barolo that starts out with breadth, turning more focused and linear by the finish. Delivers cherry, plum, mineral, sandalwood and tar aromas and flavors that permeate the supple texture, with all the components in the right proportions. Firm, refined tannins lend support and this lingers nicely. Best from 2025 through 2045. From Italy.—B.S., Wine Spectator

Vietti has the enormous advantage of 10 MGA sites at its disposition for blending purposes (and for making single-vineyard wines). This allows them to select the fruit they want to best express any one vintage. The 2018 Barolo Castiglione draws upon those 10 sites (including the recent additions of Mosconi, Ginestra, Bricco Ravera and Briccolina) to make what is ultimately its best-selling wine (with 35,000 bottles released). This classic rendition is tonic and clean with varietal tones of wild berry, rose and rusty nail. - Monica Larner, Wine Advocate

Plenty of wild-berry character to the nose and palate. Medium-bodied with good fruit focus and firm tannin that will need a year or two to soften. Bright and youthful. Give it time. Best from 2024. - James Suckling