2021 La Spinetta Barolo Garretti, Piedmont

La Spinetta was founded by the Rivetti family in the hills of Piedmont and has grown from a small Moscato producer into one of Italy's most admired estates. Giorgio Rivetti's pursuit of quality and meticulous vineyard work helped establish the winery among Barolo's elite, with a style that combines modern precision with deep respect for Nebbiolo and its historic vineyards.

Garretti is one of Barolo's rising stars, a prized site in Grinzane Cavour known for producing wines of perfume, finesse and approachability. The vineyard's calcareous clay soils and favourable exposure give Nebbiolo a slightly more generous and open knit personality while retaining the structure and longevity that define great Barolo.

The colour is a brilliant garnet red with youthful ruby highlights. Aromas of rose petals, red cherry and wild strawberry rise from the glass alongside notes of orange peel, liquorice and sweet spice. The palate is beautifully layered, combining vibrant red fruits with silky tannins and a fine mineral thread that runs through the wine. Hints of tar, dried herbs and cedar emerge with air, while the finish is long, savoury and unmistakably Barolo.

Wonderful with truffle risotto, slow braised beef cheek, duck ragù with pappardelle or mushroom and porcini lasagne. While already remarkably approachable for young Barolo, this has the balance and structure to reward cellaring through to the mid 2040s and beyond.