Virna di Borgogno Barolo Sarmassa 2016

96 points Daniele Cernilli (Doctor Wine): "From Nebbiolo grapes. Two years between large barrels and tonneau. Intense garnet. Very fine on the nose, with delicate spicy tones in the foreground, clear, intact, with hints of violet and rose, then slight tobacco and cardamom. Tastes composed and multifaceted, elegant, with dense and velvety tannins, perfectly integrated, good body, salty, agile. Really well done."

95 points James Suckling: "This has a fascinating nose with ripe pomegranate, boysenberries, dried raspberries, tea leaves and dried spices. Full-bodied and dense, but the tannins are quite seamless and the acidity is agile and flowing throughout. Long and persistent on the finish. Drink from 2026. (8/5/20)"

94+ points Monica Larner (Wine Advocate): "Sarmassa is yet another historic cru located in the comune of Barolo, and the Virna 2016 Barolo Sarmassa moves the drinking window forward for those who don't want to wait many years before popping the cork. Sarmassa is often distinguished by a burst of power and richness, and you get both of those qualities in this classic vintage that calls for some kind of rabbit pasta or other game dish. Showing dark fruit nuances with a soft and open-knit quality of fruit, there is a fruity, succulent or even meaty quality to this wine that can't be missed in this 3,300-bottle release. Drink: 2023-2040. (Jul 2020)"