Barolo 'Vignarionda'

Score

96

Score

92

Score

94

Score

94

Score

92

"The 2018 Barolo Vignarionda offers plenty of power and depth, but less in the way of Rionda character, and that's a shame. Big tannins and dense fruit are not especially interesting, especially not here. Rionda is quite possible Barolo's greatest grand cru. Time in the glass brings out some of the inner perfume and sweetness that makes the best wines from this site so alluring, but the style remains decidedly pushed."

Score

93

"A juicy red, with a beam of pure cherry permeating throughout, augmented by floral, iron, eucalyptus and black pepper notes. Firms up as this builds to a long, tightly wound finish, with more spice and mineral on the aftertaste. Best from 2025 through 2043. ‡B.S. "

Score

94

"Aged for 12 months in barrique plus a further 12 months in larger botte, this Vignarionda is pretty classic. The concentration of fruit is great: generous yet elegant cherry and strawberry fruit are accompanied by a straw note, while the liquorice finish shows youthful grainy tannins, refined and sweet, along with refreshing acidity. It's a little early to tell for sure, but it should age quite well."

Score

95

"Very perfumed and classy on the nose with roses and lavender. Aromatic. Full-bodied with velvety tannins and a pretty presence in the glass. Very polished and ripe tannins for the vintage. Drink after 2027."

Score

17+

"Serralunga d,Alba. Just mid ruby with orange tinges. Balsamic cherry nose growing in depth with aeration. Subtly complex, but with quite a bit of concentration. Polished, juicy fruit with finely ground tannins building up on the finish, adding grip to the lush cherry fruit. Very long and compelling and finely balanced. (WS) "

Score

96

"Lifted and floral, the 2019 Barolo Vignarionda takes on notes of wild strawberry, cinnamon, roses, and resin. More refined in its tannins and elegant, it is both powerful and gentle, with raspberry liqueur, bergamot, and dusty earth. It balances the strength of Serralunga with great finesse and is an absolutely beautiful wine from Luigi Pira. Drink 2025-2045."

Score

93

"The 2019 Barolo Vignarionda is quite sensual in its aromatic profile, but also less giving on the palate. It will be interesting to see if this softens with time in bottle. Giampaolo Pira has made notable strides with his wines. The Vignarionda remains the last nut to crack."

Score

94

"A delineated red, with cherry, strawberry, hibiscus and menthol flavors defined by vibrant acidity. Elegant, yet with a straight spine of tannins and subtle length on the finish, which echoes the red fruit and hibiscus and picks up a mineral element. Best from 2026 through 2045. ‡B.S."