Scarzello, Barolo 2019

This is a phenomenally delicious Barolo in the classic, restrained and elegant mould. Showing some development of flavour and a sumptuous delivery of fine-grained tannins, broad, juicy mouthfeel and a long, long finish. Flavours of crushed rose petals, morello cherries, damson and blueberries are decorated by subtle earthy spice flavours, offering a sneak preview into how this wine will continue to develop over many years to come.

Federico Scarzello's wines are classy, refined and delicious. Representing the profound depth that can be achieved in each of the terroirs that they farm, the results are simultaneously a reminder of the great past of Piemonte, its vibrant, joyful present and a very exciting and promising future. He is the third generation to run this estate and has done so since 2001, insisting on traditional methods using modern equipment (it sounds really easy, doesn't it, but it's often not done like this...) and sometimes this creates some odd outcomes, with some fermentations lasting nearly two months. The wines are matured in large oak barrels to support the flavours of the wines rather than dictate them, and they age variously according to the potential of each wine and the intention Federico has for each. 

There is a sense of reassuring power here; like being taken somewhere you're not too sure about, yet knowing that it will be brilliant. he sense of mastery is very real - this is almost too easy to drink (as if that were a thing) but the structure and depth are delivered with so little fuss that you are halfway through a glass before you notice just how very, very good this wine is.

This is what Barolo should really taste like.