2019 Produttore del Barbaresco Pora Riserva

Aromas of sandalwood, rosewood and damson plums lead the nose of this Barbaresco. As the wine develops notes of violet and dark spices emerge. There is a seriousness to the palate. The dark fruits are standing at attention as savory flavors fill out the ranks. Firm but not overpowering the tannins show grace yet remain taut and polished ready for review. A stunning wine. Drink 2026 - 2050 —Jeff Porter

The Produtori del Barbaresco 2019 Barbaresco Riserva Pora represents a classic vintage that was cooler compared to 2020. This results in medium-plus concentration and a velvety texture. The bouquet shows blackberry, spice and sweet earth. This is a pretty wine with some grit to the tannins but otherwise shows a soft and accessible personality. More oxidative in character, this is great for near or medium-term drinking.

Full of cherry, strawberry, rose, stone and spice flavors, this tightly knit red is both open and muscular, with refined tannins exerting themselves on the finish. Broad and intense, with plenty of energy on the finish. (BS)

Attractive notes of red currants and cherries with hints of cedar, walnuts and crushed stones. Juicy with bright fruit and firm, chalky tannins. Medium- to full-bodied. It’s lingering and lightly chewy at the end with notes of bitter oranges. Better after 2027.

The 2019 Barbaresco Riserva Pora is a pretty tightly wound wine, certainly moreso than is typically the case for this Barbaresco, which is often much more engaging in the early going. Dried herbs, tobacco, cedar and earthiness lend notable savory nuance in this decidedly nervy, somber Pora. There's good fruit intensity and plenty of character that makes me want to revisit this in a few months' time.