2020 Paolo Scavino Barolo Ravera, Piedmont

Compact, concise and spiced with berries, warm herbs, forest floor and crushed black pepper aromas. Medium- to full-bodied with fine, firm tannins and crisp acidity. Vivid and crunchy with succulent small berries and sour cherries. It has a transparent character to it at the core and a racy finish with good length. Try after 2028.

95 points jamessuckling.com

The nose lifts out of the glass with aromas of crushed raspberries, cherries and sour plum alongside a captivating array of mixed spices and wild herbs. The palate boasts a firm structure that showcases the interplay between macerated wild berries and the earthy elements that are still developing. This well-made wine is striking in its balance and intensity. Drink 2026 - 2045

94 points wineenthusiast.com

The Paolo Scavino Barolo Ravera from Piedmont is a profound and structured single-vineyard Barolo that showcases the power and finesse of the Nebbiolo grape. Sourced from the prestigious Ravera cru in Novello, this wine reflects both the exceptional terroir and the craftsmanship of the Scavino family, who have been producing wines in Barolo since 1921.

On the nose, the wine is complex and aromatic, revealing layers of dark cherries, blackberries, and plums, interwoven with floral notes of violets and rose petals. Subtle hints of leather, licorice, and tobacco are complemented by a touch of crushed stone and a delicate spiciness, reflecting the vineyard’s mineral-rich soils.

The palate is full-bodied and powerful, with firm, fine-grained tannins and vibrant acidity providing structure and longevity. Flavors of ripe dark fruits are complemented by savory undertones of black tea, dried herbs, and a whisper of anise. The wine’s finish is long, persistent, and intricately layered, showcasing Ravera’s hallmark intensity and elegance.

The Ravera vineyard is known for its high altitude and predominantly calcareous soils, which contribute to the wine’s structure, aromatic complexity, and aging potential. Fermentation is carried out in stainless steel, followed by aging in a combination of French oak barrels and large casks, allowing the wine to develop its depth and character while preserving its purity.

This Barolo is a perfect pairing for rich dishes such as osso buco, braised lamb shanks, or wild game. It also pairs beautifully with truffle-infused dishes or aged cheeses like Gorgonzola or Castelmagno. While approachable after several years of cellaring, the Paolo Scavino Barolo Ravera has the capacity to age gracefully for 20–25 years, rewarding patience with remarkable depth and complexity.