Barolo Massara (labelled as normale), Castello di Verduno 2019

Showing extreme finesse, the beautiful 2019 Castello di Verduno Massara has intense aromas of rose, perfumed berry, new leather and camphor. On the elegant, structured palate, firm, fine-grained tannins support juicy red cherry, strawberry compote, blood orange and baking spice. It’s vibrant and youthfully austere but delicious and already balanced, with bright acidity. Drink 2028–2044.

Verduno. Just mid ruby with orange tinges. Balsamic nose with quite a bit of concentration, yet still subdued. Strawberry and raspberry fruit on the palate and with finely chiselled tannins that go on and on. Super-elegant and yet firmly structured and endlessly long. 2023-2032.