Nicolas Belfrage: Some fullness of ruby/garnet hue. Nose is somewhat expressionless. A load of fruit on the palate, combined with plenty of oak, which is probably responsible for dampening the nose and is not integrated in mouth. An excellent wine, though somewhat for lovers of the modern style. 14.5

Simon Larkin: Deep, glossy hue. The aromas suggest dark forest fruits allied to notes of vanillin. On the palate there is a broad swathe of fruit, with a touch of tea-chest complexity. Quite a bold style, the appeal depending on the silky texture. The tannins are quite grippy, but there is a lovely core of fruit allied to a cold-tea character. Very assertive in style, with plenty of drive and expression. 16.5

Franco Ziliani: This appears to be from a winery that that has forgotten that the style war in Barbaresco is over. A warrior fighting for the the jungle (Allier or Troncais, I don’t know). Absurdly dark, inky-purple color, with oak-dominated notes of coffee and toast that mask the fruit and rob the wine of elegance. The palate is equally disappointing, with dry, bitter tannins and off-putting opulence. Some may like it, but I do not. 10