2021 Fratelli Alessandria Barolo San Lorenzo

This wine was introduced in 1997 and was the first single-vineyard expression from this MGA site. The Fratelli Alessandria 2021 Barolo San Lorenzo di Verduno (with 5,000 bottles created) has a sweet side with nutmeg and tobacco, but it also presents a solid core of cherry fruit and blackcurrant. This nicely balanced expression has more accessible tannins for medium-term drinking. 94 points

The 2021 Barolo San Lorenzo di Verduno is a wine of translucence, elegance and finesse. Bright acids cut through a core of red/purplish fruit, chalk, slate, crushed rocks and white pepper. Rose petal, blood orange peel and mint resonate on the high-toned, intensely saline finish. San Lorenzo is often a potent Barolo, but in 2021, it comes across as especially finessed. Drink 2028 - 2045. 94-96 points

The 2021 San Lorenzo di Verduno from Fratelli Alessandria is a stunner, starting with its intense fragrance of violet, rose, perfumed berry, forest floor and new leather. The palate is full-bodied and utterly delicious, delivering ripe black cherry, black raspberry, licorice and white truffle before a savory finish. Tightly knit, fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity keep it balanced while a hint of almond liqueur lingers on the finish. 96 points