Ascheri, Sorano Coste & Bricco, Barolo, Serralunga d’Alba

Established in La Morra in the early 19th century, Ascheri moved to the town of Bra in 1880, and the original La Morra vineyards were added to purchases of individual estates in Serralunga d’Alba, Verduno and Bra. Grown on selected plots of the Sorano vineyard in Serralunga d’Alba, this is made by Matteo Ascheri and produced in only the best vintages. Coste & Bricco is known to be very long-lived, yet Ascheri remains ever-vigilant in avoiding the extraction of harsh tannins. Stephen Brook: Muted, leathery nose. Very rich and sumptuous, a full-bodied style with an imposing depth of fruit, but not ungainly or overwrought. Michael Garner: Full and frank, bramble fruit aromas with faintly herbal notes. Juicy and ripe, pretty red fruit flavours – stylish, charming, and nearly ready. Susan Hulme MW: Liquorice, molasses and tar on the nose, firmly austere but very concentrated. Traditional, uncompromising style with intense liquorice-toned dark fruit, very firm tannins and bright acidity, with a very long, sinewy finish. Powerful and impressive.