About the wine:
The name means from the "sunny side" (sörì in Piedmontese) of Rio Sordo, a cru well known for elegance. True enough, this noble red has the richness and concentration of an ideal southerly exposure, with the signature finesse of its terroir. Though it may be enjoyed after 1 year, it rewards cellaring of 3-15 years, even more in top vintages.
Tasting Notes:
Deep garnet red w/dark ruby hues; ethereal, complex bouquet of wild roses, violets, licorice, berry fruit, cinnamon, cloves. Ideally incarnates the Barbaresco category w/its silky texture + intense, structured flavors, full body, sweet tannins, long finish. Serving suggestions: Rich, structured, important dishes, red meat, game, seasoned cheese.
94 Points - Antonio Galloni:
"Dark red plums, black cherries, menthol, cloves and spices all flesh out in the 2011 Barbaresco Rio Sordo. A large-scaled, ample wine, the 2010 Rio Sordo is all about power and virility. There is plenty of 2011 vintage raciness and richness, but those elements are tempered by considerable tannins that will need a few years to settle down." - Antonio Galloni (July 2014)
92 Points - James Suckling:
"Fascinating aromas of barbecue, stones, peppermint and citrus herald a wine that is very well structured and tightly knit. It's full-bodied with layers of dense fruit, refined tannins and a fresh finish. Drink in 2017." - (Dec 2014)
Wine Enthusiast Magazine:
"Subtle aromas include crushed flower, forest floor, graphite, black berry and a note of menthol. The ripe palate offers red cherry-berry and a hint of cinnamon alongside muted but drying tannins. Drink through 2021. Kerin O’Keefe" - (12/31/2014)
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate:
"The 2011 Barbaresco Rio Sordo exhibits pretty nuances of ash, dusty mineral and pencil shavings complimented by bold fruit and thick veins of blackberry and dark cherry. The Barbaresco Rio Sordo shows an especially fine but firm structure in 2011 that will help it evolve over the medium and long term. Drink: 2015-2025.
