The 2015 Barolo San Giovanni is a deep and penetrating expression with a tight and nervous streak of dark fruit that will require more bottle aging before it starts to unwind. In fact, I found many of the wines from Monforte d'Alba to be longer-term wines in this vintage compared to the other villages of the Barolo appellation. Smoke, tar and licorice lift gently from the glass. I would recommend waiting at least five more years before opening this bottle.

Aromas of French oak, coconut, camphor and blue flowers meld together on this. The assertive palate offers dried cherry, raw cranberry, roasted coffee bean and powdered sage, while grainy tannins leave a clenching, astringent finish.