The 2016 Barolo Rocche di Castiglione is rich, sumptuous and elegant. Light on its feet yet also wonderfully deep and nuanced, the 2016 possesses off-the-charts resonance, energy and aromatic intensity. All the elements come together in a profoundly expressive Barolo endowed with tremendous class and pedigree. Ample, creamy and explosive, this is a wine of textural resonance and pure power.

Aromas of blueberries, sliced strawberries and peaches. Full body and firm, chewy tannins that are polished and velvety in a refined way. Better after 2022.

The purity of the fruit is the highlight of this complex and compelling red, with cherry, raspberry and floral aromas and flavors permeating from start to finish, plus notes of iron, tobacco and eucalyptus. The firm structure melds nicely as the finish lingers. Best from 2023 through 2045. 307 cases made, 75 cases imported. — BS

The Vietti 2016 Barolo Rocche di Castiglione is a complete wine, offering exact measures of purity, intensity, freshness and structure. This is the 360-degree Barolo from Vietti, with fruit sourced closest to home in Castiglione Falletto. Rocche di Castiglione sees more shade hours, and that becomes an important factor in the hottest vintages and the longest growing seasons. It creates diurnal shifts that positively impact the purity and brilliant focus of the fruit. Of all the comuni of Barolo, Castiglione Falletto produced exceptional results across the board in this classic vintage. Dark fruit, pressed lilac, blood orange, powdered licorice, balsam herb, spice, iron ore and aniseed fit together perfectly like pieces in a puzzle. Once completed, that puzzle offers a dazzling panoramic portrait of this special Barolo territory. A mere 3,394 bottles and 300 magnums were produced. ML