Francesco Rinaldi & Figli Barolo Brunate 2020

Francesco Rinaldi & Figli Barolo Brunate 2020 is an exceptionally structured, traditional, and powerful expression of Nebbiolo originating from one of the most revered and historic crus shared between the Barolo and La Morra communes. Grown on complex limestone-clay soils with sand-tinged compositions, it pours an attractive translucent garnet-ruby red in the glass. The nose is incredibly broad, highly expressive, and classic, bursting with rich aromas of dark black cherries, succulent Morello cherries, and dried wild strawberries, complexly layered with fragrant notes of dried violets, sage, menthol, licorice, and a distinct trace of dried mint. On the palate, this full-bodied, powerhouse red effortlessly showcases the signature finesse of the Brunate vineyard while navigating the warmth of the 2020 vintage with vibrant, dynamic energy. Its dense and muscular core of plum and dark fruit compote is framed beautifully by a firm, close-grained backbone of mountain tannins and well-integrated natural acidity. Meticulously aged for a minimum of three years in traditional large 5,000-liter Slavonian oak casks, it glides into a dry, austere, and deeply harmonious finish enlivened by lingering echoes of cardamom, cedar, baking spice, and orange peel.

Food Pairing: Pairs spectacularly with grilled rosemary lamb chops, slow-cooked beef short ribs, roasted wild boar stews, or earthy mushroom truffle risotto.

94 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

The Francesco Rinaldi & Figli 2020 Barolo Brunate is a wine of good sharpness and intensity. It has a broad range of aromas with dark fruit, licorice and dried mint. That herbal character is something I often recognize in Barolo's Brunate vineyard, which is planted on limestone clay soils. This hot-vintage wine closes with a powerful 15% alcoholic content. I would assign a medium-term drinking window for this accessible Barolo. 10,000 bottles were created.

93 Points - James Suckling

Very attractive nose of dried wild strawberries, dried violets, grapefruit peel, cardamom and cedar. Solid and energetic on the palate, with a medium to full body and a firm backbone of tannins. Structured and well balanced. Try from 2028.

92 Points - Wine Enthusiast