BARBARESCO
98 Gaja 2018 Barbaresco. Fragrant and loaded with extraordinary finesse, this radiant red offers intense aromas of rose, violet, perfumed berry and camphor. The savory palate boasts flavor, energy and almost ethereal elegance, featuring red cherry, raspberry compote and baking spice alongside taut, polished tannins. It closes on a note of star anise while vibrant acidity keeps it impeccably balanced. It’s already enjoyable but will also offer years of fine wining. Drink through 2033. Terlato Wines International. —K.O.
abv: 14% Price: $260
97 Castello di Neive 2018 Santo Stefano Albesani (Barbaresco). For full review see page 171. Cellar Selection.
abv: 14.5% Price: $55
96 Albino Rocca 2017 Angelo (Barbaresco). Aromas of iris, ripe dark-skinned berries and truffle mingle with ground clove on this smooth, compelling red. On the delicious, full-bodied palate, firm, fine-grained tannins wrap around ripe Marasca cherry, blood orange and licorice while fresh acidity keeps it balanced. Drink 2024–2032. Classic Wine Imports, Inc. —K.O.
abv: 14.5% Price: $116
Full-bodied and delicious, this opens with aromas of raspberry compote, camphor and pipe tobacco. The palate boasts concentrated flavors but also a weightless elegance and energy, delivering dried Morello cherry, blood orange, licorice and baking spice alongside tightly woven, velvety tannins. Fresh acidity keeps it
