Dried flowers, red berry baked tarts, rose petals, patisserie elements. Clean, clear and sharp, this is focussed and amazingly taught on the palate. Tannins are present and firm giving the linearity to this - the straight core that drives the wine forward. It's not so expansive, the tension is so apparent still, but so well defined and really graceful. Feels sophisticated and oh so charming. Such amazing almost bitter, minty, freshness on the finish, the licks of stone, graphite, pencil led giving the salinity and minerality. Just such a gorgeous lingering impression that makes you smile. Mouthwatering acidity is up front and centre but it's cushioned and plumped by the tannins and freshness, not giving plushness but certainly adding depth. Amazingly well controlled, full of vivacity and scintillating tension.

Enchanting aromas of spiced cherry preserves, baking spices and rosewood just scratch the surface of what can and will emerge from this stunning Barolo. The palate strikes a firm tone with a foundation of tannins and acidity built for the cellar while tart red berries, aged tea and herbal flavors give an alluring aura to this wine. Drink 2026–2045. — Jeff Porter

Beautiful nose with dried red fruit, cherry chocolate, bergamot and bark with hints of citrus blossom and dry earth. So polished and refined with medium to full body and a compact tannin structure. It has savory nuances to the fruit character and crushed stone minerality in the finish. Already attractive but can age further.

The 2016 vintage is still young but is not too far away from its prime drinking window. Held back for more aging at the winery, the Michele Chiarlo 2016 Barolo Riserva Cerequio has only begun to turn away from primary intensity. There are aromas of dried fruit and pressed rose that follow a long, polished mouthfeel. This is a full-bodied effort from Cerequio with rich fruit weight and spicy oak tannins.

High-toned flavors of red cherry and raspberry are tinged with hints of tarragon and fresh rose petal in this fresh and floral Riserva. Its pure red fruit tones and energetic acidity suggest a long life ahead, even as the polished tannins make it accessible now with a decant. —S.J.

This red has settled into a nice groove, evoking fading cherry and ripe berry fruit, eucalyptus, menthol and mint notes, with an underlying mineral component. Tightens up on the finish, suggesting this still has some time to give. Balanced and elegant overall. Best from 2026 through 2045. - BS