2016 Paolo Bea "Pipparello" Montefalco Rosso Riserva

Dark, inward and balsamic, the 2016 Montefalco Rosso Riserva Pipparello lifts from the glass with masses of smoky crushed stone, ash, wild herbs and dried black cherries. This is a vertical yet also racier than the 2017, with herbal-tinged red berries and minerals that penetrate deeply; all is nicely energized by brisk acidity. A staining of primary concentration lingers incredibly long, and yet the mouth is still left watering for more, as the 2016 finishes structured yet incredibly fresh. This is possibly the best and most complete rendition of Pipparello that I have ever tasted, and a total standout from this classic vintage in Montefalco. (EG) 96+