George Hesse

9.4

Very good. In London. — 4 days ago

Freddy R. Troya

9.5

Gianfranco Alessandria – Barolo 2020
Piedmont – Italy 🇮🇹

Overview
Made from 100% Nebbiolo, this Barolo captures the essence of Piedmont’s most noble grape. The 2020 vintage is still youthful, showing its classic austerity and perfume while beginning the long climb toward its prime. (Educational note: Nebbiolo is famous for combining delicate floral aromatics with firm tannins and vibrant acidity, giving Barolo its legendary aging potential.)

Aromas & Flavors
Roses and violets open gracefully, followed by tart red cherry, cranberry, and dried strawberry. Nuances of anise, tar, and subtle spice emerge with air, promising further complexity as the wine matures.

Mouthfeel
Medium-bodied but firmly structured, with gripping tannins and racing acidity. The tart fruit and floral notes ride on a backbone of minerality, finishing long and tightly wound — signaling a wine built for age.

Food Pairings
Perfect with rich northern Italian cuisine: truffle risotto, braised beef (Brasato al Barolo), or wild mushroom tagliatelle. Also shines with aged Parmigiano Reggiano.

Verdict
A beautiful, youthful Barolo — tart, floral, and nervy, with cherry fruit and soaring acidity. Still climbing toward its peak, but already showing elegance and grace. A wine for patient cellaring, yet utterly captivating today. 🍷

Did You Know?
Barolo is often called “the king of wines and the wine of kings.” Its Nebbiolo grape name comes from nebbia (fog), referencing the autumn mists that blanket Piedmont’s vineyards during harvest.

Hidden Gem 💎
Gianfranco Alessandria is a boutique Barolo producer, crafting expressive, terroir-driven wines that fly under the radar compared to larger names — a true gem for collectors and explorers. — a month ago

Pooneet K

9.0

Last had nearly two years ago, and this seems even more closed than then. Decanted 5 hours but didn’t really open all that much. Tons of cherry on the nose, which is nice. But the palate is quite unexpressive and the finish is overwrought with dusty tannins still. Another 5 years? — 3 months ago

Ron Siegel

9.3

Impressive showing for this Monvigliero with cherry, strawberry, balsamic, savory spices, floral & tobacco notes — 18 days ago

Chris Buggy

8.9

Pleasure. Light. Clean. Good acidity, medium tannin. Good introduction to northern Italian wines for the uninitiated. — a month ago

with Jennifer

Freddy R. Troya

9.0

Villa Sparina, Gavi 2023
Piedmont, Italy 🇮🇹

Overview
Made from 100% Cortese grapes, Villa Sparina is one of the benchmarks of the Gavi DOCG. Known for its amphora-shaped bottle and consistent quality, this estate showcases the elegance of Piedmont’s flagship white wine.

Gavi DOCG is the crown jewel of Cortese, recognized as one of Italy’s most important white appellations—celebrated for its mineral-driven freshness and ability to rival more famous whites from Burgundy or Loire.

Aromas & Flavors
Fresh, crisp aromas of white peach, green apple, and citrus zest, with delicate hints of almond and wildflowers. On the palate, it’s lively and precise, offering citrus and orchard fruit layered with a touch of minerality and a subtle saline note.

Mouthfeel
Light to medium-bodied with bright acidity and a clean, elegant finish. Refreshing, harmonious, and very approachable—everything you want in a classic Gavi.

Winemaking Notes
Hand-harvested Cortese, fermented in stainless steel to preserve freshness and purity. Minimal oak influence ensures the varietal character shines through.

Food Pairing
Perfect with grilled fish, seafood risotto, or a classic Caprese salad. Also a wonderful aperitif thanks to its crisp, mouthwatering finish.

Verdict
A benchmark Gavi—zesty, mineral, and impeccably balanced. Villa Sparina continues to set the standard for what Cortese can deliver: elegance and everyday drinkability with a touch of Italian charm. — 2 months ago

Orly Berke

9.3

Very peppery and smooth — 3 months ago

Pinotman /// Andreas

9.5

Here is a confession! I try very hard to quit delectable and give it up: But then the wines come along with a personal connection. I visited Silvio in the early 2000‘s and we tried his 2003. Great wine in a hot vintage. His son was born 2003. Ever since i have a soft spot for his wines. # This one is quite spectacular. Drink now it is f….great or keep for 10 years +. Classic. Sold out at Kermit Lynch. I bought just one bottle. 😢 Enough said. — a month ago

Ed Chin

8.9

Are all of Massa’s timorasso made oxidative? Distinctive just unsure it’s my thing. — 2 months ago

Austin Hohnke

9.3

Outstanding. Waxy, deep, and long. So much texture and stuffing. Hard to believe this doesn’t see any oak. Whispering sweet everythings to my palate. — 3 months ago