2018 Silvio Giamello 'Vicenziana' Barbaresco, Piemonte, Italy   

Mature bottles of Barbaresco from this tiny grower rank among the finest Nebbiolos I have ever tasted. The scintillating, rose-scented 2001 will be hard to forget, as will the burly 2003 paired with tagliatelle coated in a slow-cooked beef ragù prepared by Silvio’s wife, Marina. The 2016 will doubtless offer the same thrills to those capable of keeping their hands off it. It presents a wonderfully rich, intense aroma of classically styled Barbaresco, layered with underbrush, tobacco, and bitters. A dense and savory palate, framed by firm tannins and plenty of cooling acidity, suggests the 2016 will live a long and prosperous life. Decant if you wish to drink it young.