2016 Barolo Sarmassa

The Marchesi di Barolo 2016 Barolo Sarmassa delivers a solid and powerful presentation with aromas of dark cherry and plum backed by smoked meat, tobacco and savory spice. It ages in both French and Slavonian oak for two years. The Sarmassa cru, from a southeast-facing slope sitting at about 350 meters in altitude, delivers intensity and bold fruit flavors with licorice, smoke and chalky mineral. Despite the intensity of the bouquet, this wine is subdued in terms of mouthfeel. There is a point of tannic tightness on the close, but the mouthfeel is soft overall, treading lightly on the palate. Some 20,000 bottles were produced.

This Barolo frames a stunning nose with intense, captivating rose perfume, chamomile tea, earl grey and tarte tatin. The palate is chewy and structured from every side, the confident tannins pushing the fruit inwards and compressing layers of vivacious red fruit with panache and style. Mineral yet fruity on the finish, and very long. Drink from 2025.