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

Deep red in color, the 2019 Barbaresco Riserva Pora has a stunningly layered and pure nose and a distilled feel, with aromas of raspberry liqueur, fresh lavender, wet stone, sweet earth, and fresh sage. It offers wonderful energy on the palate, with ripe, velvety tannins, and even though it's medium-bodied, it's not lacking for depth, revealing notes of tea leaf and bergamot on its long finish. It's going to be an age-worthy wine to drink 2026-2046.

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.