Violet, pipe tobacco, woodland berry and sandalwood aromas form an enticing bouquet. It's linear and radiant, delivering cranberry, red cherry, cake spice, star anise and chopped herb. Firm, fine-grained tannins provide the framework. Drink 2023-2030.

Here's a cru expression from Sottimano that has never crossed my radar before. The 2015 Barbaresco Basarin (with fruit from Neive) is a beautifully executed wine. Specifically, the wine maintains its deep inner elegance despite the heat of the vintage that is so apparent in many other wines made nearby. This is a polished and glossy expression with dark fruit flavors at the core. My only dislike is the quality of the tannins, which feel rough and loose in texture. Only 3,000 bottles were made.