This is the classic Barolo from Fratelli Alessandria, made with a blend of fruit from various sites in Verduno. (From the 2017 vintage forward, the new name "del Comune di Verduno" will reflect its origins.) The 2016 Barolo opens to tight elegance and a nervous quality that pits red fruit energy over lean fruit weight. The results are graceful, lithe, fragile and lasting. The wine's aromas unfolded slowly and seductively, revealing wild berry, cassis, bitter cherry, toasted almond and blue flower. This is a dreamy wine that promises more beauty as it continues its bottle evolution. An ample 20,000 bottles were produced. This is one of the very best values found anywhere in Barolo.

Alessandria’s 2016 Barolo is a fabulous choice for readers looking for a wine that won’t break the bank. Freshly cut roses, blood orange, red berry fruit, white pepper, chalk and bright acids all pulse through the 2016. A Barolo of energy and cut, the 2016 needs at least a few years in bottle to soften, but it is so impressive today.