2017 Produttori del Barbaresco Riserva Pora, Piedmont

The 2017 Barbaresco Riserva Pora (with 13,333 bottles released) is usually the first wine I taste each year when I review this set of Riservas from Produttori del Barbaresco. That's because it usually appears as the most delicate, and the intensity of each successive bottle increases after this one. But these schematics are a bit more difficult to align in a hot and dry vintage such as this that produced richer and more succulent fruit across the board. The Pora is redolent of red and purple fruit with a little more blackberry and plum compared to previous editions. The tannic strength of the wine is also more elaborate. Pora works very well in 2017

94 points Monica Larner robertparker.com Jun 2022 Drink 2024-2048

Produttori del Barbaresco Riserva Pora is a classic and deeply authentic expression of Barbaresco, capturing both the strength of the Pora cru and the unique cooperative spirit that has made Produttori one of Piedmont’s most respected names. Pora sits on the south west side of the Barbaresco village, closer to the Tanaro River, with sandy marl soils that tend to produce Nebbiolo of generosity, roundness and early aromatic charm while still retaining structure. Compared to the firmer, more austere crus of the zone, Pora often shows a more open, supple profile, making it both expressive in youth and capable of graceful aging.

Produttori del Barbaresco was founded in 1958 under the leadership of Domizio Cavazza, with the aim of preserving traditional Barbaresco in a post war period when many growers struggled to survive. Today the cooperative brings together dozens of small growers, all farming under strict quality guidelines, with fruit selected from the best sites and vinified collectively. The Riserva wines are only produced in the best vintages and aged extensively before release, reflecting a commitment to patience and authenticity that has become the hallmark of Produttori. Winemaking remains firmly traditional, with long macerations, neutral oak and an unwavering focus on site expression.

In the glass Riserva Pora shows a deep garnet colour with ruby highlights. Aromas are inviting and layered, offering rose petal, red cherry, raspberry and plum, supported by subtle spice, licorice and a gentle earthy note. The palate is generous and well proportioned, delivering ripe red fruit, fine grained tannins and a long, savoury finish with a soft mineral edge. It pairs beautifully with braised meats, roast pork, mushroom dishes and aged cheeses, and it will continue to evolve over fifteen to twenty years, developing notes of leather, dried flowers and forest floor while retaining its charm.

Produttori del Barbaresco Riserva Pora is a superb example of traditionally made Barbaresco, offering depth, balance and transparency, and standing as a testament to the power of collective craftsmanship and great vineyard sites.