The nose exudes classic and pretty aromas of crushed cherries and raspberry with hints of orange peel and roses. The palate is textured and driven by flavors of fruits of the forest, wild thyme and camphor, adding to its complexity. Drink 2025–2040. — Jeff Porter

Though not that expressive today, this red is saturated with cherry, earth and iron flavors, accented with mint and rosemary. Firmly built, this persists on the aftertaste, with fresh cherry and berry notes. Best from 2027 through 2045. 325 cases imported.

A sweet, bold blackberry and black cherry nose, with some cream, spice and dust. Intense, verging on jammy but not, and with lovely balsamic freshness allied to a stony mid-palate. Really clean and pure fruit, vertical style, with earthy and spicy depth on the finish. Class

Also from Rio Sordo, the 2020 Barbaresco Rio Sordo displays a sllightly deeper ruby color and has a sunnier feel, although it remains red-fruited and bright, with notes of ripe raspberries, candied roses, tea leaf, tangerine, and sweet licorice. Medium-bodied, it’s rounder and more approachable, with ripe tannins and a clean, well-balanced finish. This is another well done wine from the Ca' Rome'team to drink over the next 10 years.

The 2020 Barbaresco Rio Sordo opens nicely in the glass, showing hints of kirsch, cinnamon, orange zest, cedar and sweet pipe tobacco. Pliant and expressive, with fine balance, the Rio Sordo is another strong wine in this range from Ca' Rome'. - By Antonio Galloni on September 2023