2012 Barolo Ester Canale Rosso Vigna Rionda Giovanni Rosso Piedmont...

Only 1,457 made

Tasting the wine from the barrel, I was struck not by any particular aroma or flavour but by its elegant shape. Pale red/ruby in colour, the nose is reassuringly self-effacing; it’s understated, composed, and cultured, delicately perfumed with mulberry, a hint of menthol, and cool clove. 

The palate is remarkable for its serenity, Maserati line, and persistence. The layers of tight, sweet-berried fruit and spice are barely discernible, racy with cleansing acidity, framed by the finest tannins. Compared with vintage 2011, Vigna Rionda 2012 is more classical, with cooler, delicate aromatics that become fragrant on the palate. It’s a good wine.

Berry Bros. & Rudd