Paolo Conterno Paolo Conterno Barolo Riva del Bric 2019 750ml

Brooding and powerful in its character, the 2019 Barolo Riva del Bric pours a deer garnet/ruby, with fleshy black cherry, sweet saddle leather, and balsamic. A full-bodied Barolo. It expands through the palate, with ripe tannins, iron-rich earth, and warmth throughout. Though it would appeal to more modern-slanting palates, it is not flashy from oak makeup but rather leans into the ripeness of fruit and broadness in structure and is well-balanced. Drink 2025–2037. (Audrey Frick)

Paolo Conterno’s 2016 Barolo Riva del Bric is a gorgeous wine for drinking now. Silky and open knit, with a very classic feel, the 2016 is hugely appealing. Freshly cut flowers, mint, pine, sweet red cherry, leather and orange peel all grace this intriguing, mid-weight Barolo. Translucent and supple, with lovely Nebbiolo character, the 2016 is a winner from Giorgio Conterno. I would give it a few hours of air if opened now.

Though a bit rigid, this red features cherry, black currant, iron and leafy underbrush flavors. Light-bodied, this is sustained by a layer of firm, dusty tannins. Best from 2025 through 2038. 1,666 cases made, 500 cases imported. (Bruce Sanderson)