Tasting note

The 2016 Barolo Castellero captures all the beguiling nuance of this Monforte d’Alba site. Dried flowers, mint, pine, licorice, spice and sweet red cherry fill out the layers effortlessly. The 2016 is beautifully expressive and resonant, yet it remains light on its feet. There is so much to look forward to.

Score: 94

Antonio Galloni, Vinous.com, October 2020

New leather, camphor, tobacco and fragrant purple flower are just some of the aromas you’ll find on this fragrant, focused red. The delicious palate features juicy red cherry, crushed raspberry, baking spice and truffle while taut polished tannins provide seamless support. Fresh acidity keeps it youthful and balanced. It’s already showing beautifully but will also offer years of pleasure.

Score: 96

Kerin O’Keefe, Wine Enthusiast, July 2020

The Barale Fratelli 2016 Barolo Castellero opens to immediate intensity with black fruit aromas that taste soft, rich and slightly overripe. This is a medium-bodied wine with a loose or open-knit texture that gives it an accessible personality. The mouthfeel is amped up with bitter cherry, blackberry and balanced spice or smoke. Fruit comes from a two-hectare vineyard at 270 meters above sea level with characteristic Sant'Agata marl soils and fossils. Fermentation kicks off with indigenous yeasts, and maceration lasts up to one month. The wine ages in traditional oak casks for three years.

Score: 92

Monica Larner, July 2020 Week 3, The Wine Advocate, July 2020