G.D. Vajra Barolo Bricco delle Viole 2016

98 points Monica Larner (Wine Advocate): "From the Bricco delle Viole cru, or the vineyard most strongly associated with this historic estate, this is a versatile or "evergreen" wine that always delivers consistent results. The G.D. Vajra 2016 Barolo Bricco delle Viole sees fruit from a seven-hectare vineyard with high exposures positioned at 400 to 480 meters above sea level. This site shows characteristic Tortonian-era soils classified as Sant'Agata marl with fossils. These soils have an enormous capacity to regulate the ripening process, resulting in the longer growing seasons relished by the Nebbiolo grape. In a word, the profile here is classic. You get delicate fruit tones and wild rose with camphor ash, licorice and tar. The wine is beautifully harmonious and ethereal. Drink: 2023-2050. (Jul 2020)"

97 points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "The 2016 Barolo Bricco delle Viole is going to need a few years to emerge, but it has all the qualities to develop into a truly special wine. Dark red / purplish fruit, hard candy, mint, lavender and sweet spice give the 2016 striking inner perfume. On the palate, the 2016 is a tightly wound, classically austere Barolo that will especially delight readers with traditionally leaning palates. In this late-ripening vintage, there is a great balance of structure, aromatics and mid-palate sweetness. I absolutely loved it. Drink: 2024-2041. (Feb 2020)"

97 points James Suckling: "The nose is packed with blue flowers, such as violets, iodine and blueberries. Very charming, seductive aromas here. The palate has such plush, long and expansive style. Elegant and smooth, it delivers an expansive bloom of fragrance and flavor at the finish. Effortless and layered. This is a star of the vintage. Drink now and for two decades. (8/4/20)"

96 points Wine Spectator: "Mint and cut grass aromas give way to cherry, black currant and raspberry fruit in this juicy red. Tar, tobacco and eucalyptus accents add depth as this builds to a long, gripping finish. Shows fine balance and length. Best from 2023 through 2046. (10/7/20)"

95 points Wine Enthusiast: "Classic Nebbiolo aromas of rose, dark-skinned berry, star anise and tilled earth are front and center on this radiant red. On the elegant palate, fresh acidity and taut refined tannins support juicy sour cherry, cranberry, clove and star anise. It's still youthfully austere and needs time to fully develop. Drink 2026–2036. Alcohol 14.5%. (Sep 2020)"