Scents of whole roses (stem, leaf and petal) provide an intoxicating introduction to this wine’s high-toned flavors of red cherry, sour plum and pomegranate. Brisk acidity and fine, chalky tannins frame the flavors as they unfold in layers of licorice, tobacco and a hint of white chocolate.

A pristine red, displaying great clarity to the strawberry, cherry, rose and menthol flavors. By the time this evolves to the finish, the tannins make their mark, yet never overstep their bounds. In the end this is balanced, expressive and set to develop. Best from 2023 through 2043. 400 cases made, 50 cases imported. — BS

The Ca' Rome' 2016 Barbaresco Rio Sordo opens to great aromatic intensity with dark fruit, dried cherry, licorice and crushed limestone. These classic traits are very in line with the vintage, and they reflect Nebbiolo from Barbaresco. The tannins are silky and firm, but they are also well integrated into the texture of the wine. The wine ages in barrique for eight months followed by 12 months in Slavonian oak, and this process adds to the volume and layering you get in Rio Sordo. Production for this vintage is 7,000 bottles.

This has a riper, earthier scent than most 2016 Barbarescos at this stage, trading in notes of leather, tar, tobacco and dried fruit. It’s stocky and chunky, framing brambly, chewy tannins. Long and forthcoming on the finish. Drink from 2023.