Another highlight in this range, the 2014 Barolo Ravera opens with the most exquisite, captivating aromatics imaginable. It will be interesting to see if it develops a bit more midpalate depth and pliancy. Today, the 2014 is a bit austere, even within the context of the year and this site, where the wines are a bit on the nervous side to start. I have seen Vietti Raveras blossom into spectacular wines and imagine that will be the case here as well. Readers should not plan on opening a bottle anytime soon.

To my palate, the Ravera cru is one of the most immediately recognizable in the entire Barolo appellation. It gives off robust aromas of cherry liqueur and bitter chocolate. Those are two of the beautifully polished characteristics you get with the 2014 Barolo Ravera. But there is a lot more complexity to behold in this wine. Subtle notes of balsam herb, crushed mineral and rusty iron also appear. This next descriptor might seem awkward to a non-Italian readership, but you might even detect a hint of perfumed anchovy. It's all good and all beautiful.

Novello. Tasted blind. Mid to deep ruby. Soft, red-fruit nose and a hint of damp wood. Quite tart cherry fruit and drying tannins on the finish. Unsettled, needs a year more to show what it’s about… (WS)