The 2021 Barbaresco Riserva Rio Sordo marries finesse and power. Open-knit aromatics make a strong first impression. Layered and resonant in the glass, with tons of supporting structure, the Rio Sordo is going to need a few years to come into its own. Crushed rose petal, cedar, spice and tobacco lend notable finesse. The 2021 needs time, but it's got the goods. The explosive, aromatic finish is sublime.
96 Kerin O'Keefe - kerinokeefe.com
Eucalyptus, dark spice, dark-skinned berry, iris, camphor and leather aromas come to the forefront on the vividly fragrant 2021 Rio Sordo Riserva from Produttori del Barbaresco. Showing the great intensity that’s a hallmark of the outstanding vintage, the structured palate offers ripe cherry, wild strawberry, orange zest, hazelnut and dark culinary spice alongside firm, well-integrated tannins while fresh acidity keeps it balanced. Drink 2028–2036. Abv: 14.5%
