This opens with a savory earth tone and drying layers of crushed stone and wet granite. There are also pretty aromas of violets and pressed blue flowers. It finishes with fine tannins and a slightly gritty texture. — (9/1/2012) —90

This tight and firm Barbaresco from the Rio Sordo cru exhibits an orange tinge to its garnet color and shows aromas of licorice, exotic spice, old leather and dried tobacco leaf. The wine seems older than it actually is, but those polished tannins should pull it forward a few more years at least. ——M.L.(12/1/2010)—— 87