2016 Cordero di Montezemolo, Barolo, Enrico Vi

Fruit for the Cordero di Montezemolo 2016 Barolo Enrico VI is drawn from a two-hectare parcel in Villero, in Castiglione Falletto. This subzone shows especially sharp and focused aromas in this gorgeous 2016 incarnation, and indeed, that brilliant linearity is what pops out first and foremost when you evaluate the bouquet of this iconic Barolo. Wild cherry, summer plum, white stone, limestone, cola and camphor ash emerge with balanced intensity. The Enrico VI is framed by very fine and silky tannins that add a firm backbone. This wine is tightly stitched together and ready for extra cellar time.

Produced since 1974, Enrico VI comes exclusively from the estate’s 2.2ha parcel in Villero. Reference to this highly regarded MGA is left off the label in favour of the name the wine has long been known by. The 2016 is strikingly fragrant, offering inviting scents of dried leaves, pressed flower, liquorice and raspberry. There is lovely purity here and an effortless balance of elegance with power. The palate is laced with savoury, mineral, stony notes framed by fine-grained, enduring tannins. This promises much satisfaction for years to come.

Castiglione Falletto. Lustrous deep ruby. A fine, fragrant, concentrated nose laced with a posh oak note. There is a certain richness that just veers off from dried fruit. Mouth-filling, focused and elegant all at the same time. Succulent acidity and polished tannins. Sweet fruit and oak on the finish and gorgeous fresh acidity. (WS)