1996 Produttori del Barbaresco Riserva Rio Sordo

Double-decanted back into clean bottle. Minimal very fine grained sediment.  Aerated in decanter for a couple of hours. 

Irresistible floral nose right out of the gate. This could he mistaken for a fine Premier Cru Burgundy in a blind tasting, except that the tell-tale balsamic and truffle notes on the finish give it away as Piemonte. 

Beautiful tertiary development. There is nothing quite like the deliciously sweet tannins of a great older Barbaresco. Impressive balance between fruit and acidity make it incredibly food friendly.  Paired with calamari first couse followed by griiled mahi mahi and fresh crab and potato "dressing". 

For me, the 1996 vintage in Barbaresco has achieved the potential that the 1996 vintage for Red Burgundy never quite lived up to...