2016 Sottimano Barbaresco - Pre-shipment Offer

'The 2016s, wines from a potentially historic vintage, may very well put Barbaresco on the map big time.' These were the words written by Antonio Galloni in his recent report 'Out of the Shadows' (subscribers of vinous can read the full report here). The article includes a detailed description of the near perfect growing conditions along with reviews of the 43 producers he sampled that summer (2018). Antonio goes on to say, 'My visit to Sottimano was a real highlight of the time I spent in Barbaresco this past summer. I have been buying these wines for my own cellar since the mid 1990s. The transformation here since then has been nothing short of remarkable'. Naturally, we were intrigued and excited to try these wines recently at our annual tasting.

The long ripening season allowed Andrea to harvest his grapes as and when he wanted to. The weather was stable, not as hot as 2015 but consistent and warm. The 2016s therefore have a crisp edge, perfumed bouquet and bold, ripe tannins. These are wines that will age beautifully over the next 15 years but will be difficult to resist in their youth. Each cru (Fausoni, Cottá & Pajoré) are given the same oak treatment (fermentation in barriques, of which 30% new, followed by 18 to 20 months in neutral barriques) to allow the character of each individual terroir to shine through. The results are as interesting as they are impressive.

Andrea's wines are starting to receive eye catching scores and reviews. The 2016s might well be the best he has produced and at £225 per six in bond they still offer excellent value for money. My advice: take full advantage before this region starts getting the recognition it deserves.

Please note, the 2016 Basarin will be released early next year.
Please indicate in your wishlist order form if you would like to take wines duty paid.