I discovered some fairly gorgeous 2019 Barbarescos in my tastings this yr. The 2 Bruno Giacosa single-vineyard bottlings, Asili and Rabaja, have been actually excellent, with the previous displaying tremendous perfumes, depth and finesse, and the latter displaying strong construction and depth. The at all times understated and humorous Giacosa commented, “The 2019 classic was actually not the classic of the century however we made some glorious wines.”
The 2019 Barbarescos positively present extra focus of fruit of their middle palate in addition to extra focus of tannins. However they’re additionally not on the pattern high quality stage as the nice 2015, 2016 and 2017. But they’re younger Barbarescos that present plenty of enticing qualities at an early stage now. I look ahead to tasting 2019 Barolos early subsequent yr.
The few 2020 and 2021 nebbiolo-based wines, principally Barolos from barrel samples, that I tasted throughout my fast journey actually verify what di Gresy and others stated concerning the vintages. The 2020s had extra fruit and tannins with a heat and wealthy character from the recent and somewhat dry rising season whereas the 2021 have been extra tannic and classical in character. Producers are already evaluating the 2 years to the nice 2015 and 2016, respectively. Keep tuned.
– James Suckling, Editor/Chairman
