2021 Cantina del Pino Barbaresco Ovello, Piedmont

From the historic Ovello vineyard comes a Barbaresco that bridges tradition and pure drinking pleasure. The wine leads with vibrant red fruits ranging from tart pomegranate to wild plums before diving into a deeper pool of mixed berries. Mint, rosemary and violets add complexity without overwhelming the fruit. The texture is pure silk, making this seriously enjoyable now while the finish of bay leaf and sandalwood reminds us of its noble origins. Drink Now - 2045 

94 points Wine Enthusiast

Perched on the cooler northern edge of the Barbaresco appellation, Ovello is one of Piedmont's great Nebbiolo vineyards. Its elevated position and limestone rich marl soils produce wines renowned for their structure, perfume and longevity. Cantina del Pino, under the stewardship of Renato Vacca and his family, has become one of the most respected interpreters of this celebrated cru. With roots deeply embedded in Barbaresco's history, the estate remains committed to traditional winemaking that allows each vineyard to speak with clarity and authenticity.

The 2021 vintage is shaping up as one of the finest in recent memory across Piedmont. A long growing season, moderate temperatures and ideal harvest conditions delivered fruit with exceptional balance, concentration and freshness. At Ovello, these conditions produced a wine that combines the vineyard's characteristic power with remarkable elegance and precision. Extended maturation in large oak casks preserves the purity of Nebbiolo while allowing complexity and structure to develop naturally.

Bright garnet red in colour, the bouquet is wonderfully complex and deeply aromatic. Rose petals, wild cherry and raspberry are layered with blood orange, violets and hints of anise. As the wine opens, notes of tobacco leaf, truffle, forest floor and sweet spice emerge, adding depth and intrigue. The palate is finely structured and beautifully detailed, delivering flavours of red cherry, cranberry and orange zest framed by firm yet polished tannins. Fresh acidity provides energy and length, while the finish unfolds slowly with savoury earth, dried herbs and lingering floral notes.

This is a magnificent wine for the dinner table, pairing effortlessly with white truffle risotto, braised veal shanks, duck ragù with pappardelle, porcini mushroom dishes or aged Parmigiano Reggiano. While already compelling with a decant, Ovello is built for the long haul and will continue to reward patient cellaring for twenty years or more.