Prunotto Barbaresco DOCG 2021
(Piedmont, Italy) - [WA 93+] [VM 90]

Notes from the Winemaker:
Prunotto’s Barbaresco is produced from vineyards in Treiso and Neive in the Barbaresco area, it’s the elegant expression of Nebbiolo. An aristocratic wine yet accessible and pleasant. It is aged in large oak barrels of varying capacities to enhance balance and softness on the palate.

Vintage Notes:

The 2021 growing season began with mild winter weather but periods of precipitation and even some snowfall affected the area guaranteeing excellent groundwater reserves. Vine growth started right on schedule but light, localized frost events halfway through April caused lower yields but did not have any adverse effects on the quality of the fruit. The arrival of spring brought a long stretch of beautiful weather that lasted throughout summer with average seasonal temperatures that were uninterrupted by extreme heat events. June and July saw occasional summer storms. At harvest time, optimal temperature swings between day and night allowed the grapes to achieve optimal ripeness and excellent balance between sugar levels, freshness, and polyphenolic maturity. The grape harvest began on October 11th and was completed on October 14th.

Harvest and Vinification:
Carefully selected grapes were brought to the cellar, destemmed and crushed. Maceration on the skins lasted for a period of approximately 8 days at a temperature that did not exceed 30 °C (86°F). Malolactic fermentation was completed before the end of winter. Barbaresco was aged in oak barrels of varying capacities for approximately one year.

Tasting Notes:
Barbaresco 2021 is an intense garnet red color. The nose delivers complex aromas of red fruit and hints of spices. The palate is full-bodied, velvety and closes with a persistent aftertaste.

Ratings & Reviews

93+ Points - Wine Advocate: 
"Showing a light and luminous appearance, the Prunotto 2021 Barbaresco stands out for its focus, its finesse and its delicately sweet fruit tones. The wine is redolent of cassis, forest flower and peat moss, and there is a hint of tobacco that points to the wine's savory side. This Barbaresco with blended fruit from various sites is coming into its own and represents a very nice surprise from this historic estate (owned by Tuscany's Marchesi Antinori today). Production is an ample 80,000 bottles. – Monica Larner (Jan 2025)

90 Points - Vinous Media:
"The 2021 Barbaresco is a gorgeous wine to drink now and over the next handful of years. Crushed red berry fruit, cedar, spice, mint and orange peel are all beautifully lifted in this ethereal, understated Barbaresco from Prunotto." - Antonio Galloni (Oct 2024)