This wine takes us to Brunate, one of the most celebrated vineyards in the appellation and one of five prized sites farmed by the Damilano family. The 2016 Barolo Brunate definitely shows its pedigree and is perhaps the most classic wine in this group of five, thanks to its intensity and its notable depth. When Brunate delivers, it delivers, and you get dark fruit, rusty nail, blood orange and lilac, all presented in an absolutely pure and pristine manner. The Brunate cru is composed of 25% sand, 45% silt and 30% clay, so you get a bit more structure here compared to the more ethereal Cannubi right over the next hill. Damilano has crafted a terrific wine in this edition of only 2,900 bottles (released in April 2020).

Pressed rose, ground clove, star anise and moist earth aromas mingle together in the glass. Elegantly structured and full of flavor, the juicy palate doles out raspberry compote, black cherry and tobacco set against refined tannins. Drink 2023-2031.

Aromas and flavors of eucalyptus, juniper, tar, black cherry and plum are the hallmarks of this beefy red, which is fresh and packs a firm grip on the finish, yet shows the promise of ripe fruit too. Needs time. Best from 2023 through 2042. 240 cases made, 50 cases imported.