Roberto Sarotto

Barolo 'Bergera-Pezzole' 2019

92

This is wonderfully open and aromatic for a Barolo from this vintage, and flavorful and accessible in texture too — at least for now. Nebbiolo from Piedmont’s Langhe region can open and close as capriciously as red Burgundy, but let’s not look a gift horse in the mouth: This is delicious now, which makes it a way better buying choice than wines that are tight and tough that one must hope will open at some point. Complexity is always the prime virtue in these wines, but this also shows some depth and substance. Sourced from an MGA or “cru” in Novello, this shows a very nice combination of balsamic and fruity notes, but nothing obvious or too overt at any stage in the sensory progression. This was well grown, smartly picked, minimally manipulated, and deftly aged. Hard to ask for more than that.

Roberto Sarotto

Barolo 'Bergera-Pezzole' 2019

91

This Barolo is rich and ripe, showcasing lush black cherry, blackberry, and plum flavors, accompanied by cinnamon and nutmeg. The wine is round and giving on the palate, with a mouth-filling texture that suggests it is ready to be enjoyed now. The fruit profile is generous and concentrated, with the dark berries and red stone fruit taking center stage, complemented by the delightful array of anise, licorice roots and black tea, leaving a lasting impression of the wine's opulent nature.

Roberto Sarotto

Barolo 'Bergera-Pezzole' 2019

89

Deep ruby, the 2019 Barolo Bergera-Pezzole is a ripe and polished wine with aromas of candied black cherries, menthol, sappy herbs, and tar. Its oak spice comes across as more pronounced on the palate, with notes of toasted cedar taking the lead, followed by ripe tannins and a more developed fruit profile. This is going to appeal to those who enjoy a more luxurious and rich style, and it will show its best over the near term.