Serafino Rivella Barbaresco Montestfano 2017

The Montestefano Cru is unique in that is comprised of a solid meter of active limestone at the surface with clay and tufo underneath. This provides for a wine that has both freshness and lift, but also a bit more serious structure than most Barbarescos. Montestefano in Neive is one of Barbaresco's most muscular MGAs, and Rivella's 2017 captures its power with dark cherry, iron, tobacco, and a tannic spine that demands time.

Rivella vinifies more like Barolo, with 3-4 week macerations and long aging of 30-40 months in botti grande. As such, he tends to release his wines a year later than his neighbors, more like his brethren further south in Barolo.

Food Pairings: Braised beef cheek, tajarin al ragù, aged Parmigiano, wild mushroom risotto, roast lamb