2018 Barbaresco Basarin

Neive. Tasted blind. Mid ruby with orange tinges. Captivating nose of deep perfumed cherry fruit with hints of white pepper and a minty cardamom hint. Supple, concentrated palate with firm but ripe tannins. Long and multi-layered and with plenty of future. (WS)

The Sottimano 2018 Barbaresco Basarin shows tart cherry fruit and plum backed by lovely layers of crushed mineral, iron ore, spice and crushed flowers. The wine reveals an inner brightness or tartness that tastes terrific next the more nuanced character of the Nebbiolo grape. Basarin shows power and elegance in equal measure, and that is never an easy feat for any winemaker to accomplish. Production is limited to 5,500 bottles.

Located in the southeast of Neive, the 2018 Barbaresco Basarin has spiced aromatics of tobacco, confected cherry, and anise. The palate is lifted with tangy cranberry, dried violets, and clove spice, and fine tannins emerge on the finish. Drink 2022-2036. Sottimano is located in Barbaresco, with holdings in the five crus of Basarin, Curra, Fausoni, Cotta, and Pajore. The estate was founded in the late 1960s by RIno Sottimano and is today led by the entire family, Andrea, Elena, and Claudia. They do not used any herbicides or pesticides in the vineyard, and they only use minimal sulfur additions at bottling. Fermentation is carried out in wood, of which approximately 30% is new, and aging is in neutral barriques for 18-20 months.