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Barbaresco 2022 vintage: The hot vintage paradox & pick of the 2020 Riservas

Michaela Morris digs into the 2022 vintage releases from Barbaresco, a hot year that often delivered surprisingly fresh results. She presents her vintage picks and an appraisal of the 2020 Barbaresco Riservas.

The 2022 Barbaresco vintage presents a paradox: a hot, dry growing season yielding wines that defy expectations, often showing surprising freshness and purity. However, quality is inconsistent, with some wines exhibiting leanness and higher-than-usual volatile acidity.

This report explores the challenges faced by producers which led to earlier-than-average harvests and lower yields. While some vineyards thrived, showcasing the resilience of Nebbiolo and the skill of the agronomists, others struggled.

Discover which communes and vineyards excelled, and find out which respected producer declassified their entire Barbaresco production.

Alongside the 2022s, the report also examines the 2020 Riserva releases, highlighting their graciousness and early accessibility. Uncover the secrets of these contrasting vintages and gain insight into the nuanced character of Barbaresco in a challenging climate.

Barbaresco 2022 vintage rating: 3.5/5

Prolonged and extreme drought with above average temperatures led to an early harvest. Quality is uneven but the successes are truly worthwhile, offering remarkable freshness and near to mid-term drinking.


Notes and scores for the best Barbaresco 2022 & Riserva 2020 below



Barbaresco & Riserva recommendations:

Wines are listed 2022 Barbarescos first, then 2020 Riservas


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