An extremely savoury Riserva with woodland smokiness, dried cherry and strawberry fruit, and floral and balsamic tones. The attack is firm and assertive, followed by a well-packed mid-palate perfectly reflecting the dried cherry on the nose. It's refreshing, almost salty, with a dusty but sweet finish which suggests satisfying near-term drinking. The grapes come from three different plots in Barbaresco, equivalent to 1.5 hectares among the 5ha of the estate. Fermented in stainless steel tank, the wine is then aged in 20hL oak cask for 30 months.

This release of 2,820 bottles from a classic vintage shows a lot of depth and personality. Dark fruit and medium concentration give the Carlo Giacosa 2016 Barbaresco Riserva Luca power and overall presence. Dark berry notes cede to spice, tarry smoke and grilled herb. This is a nice, near-term Riserva with enough bright acidity on the close for a steak and mushroom dinner.