Giuseppe (Beppe) Rinakdi is the genius of Barolo. A great philosopher and intelligent man, he can talk to you for hours about Barolo and many other topics. Beppe has turned over the reins of running the winery to his two daughters, Marta and her younger sister, Carlotta. He remains as “consultant,” but I am sure he has a lot to say about the making of his superlative Barolos. This is the third year in a row (2010, 2012, 2013; I missed the 2011) that I have found Giuseppe Rinaldi’s Barolo the best of this tasting. It is classic old style, lots of tannin and acidity, but perfectly integrated. It has a wonderful Nebbiolo aroma, with depth and concentration, and is full of energy. It was harvested in November, the only one in the group to harvest that late. You can drink it even now, but I would wait for many years.
Giuseppe Rinaldi, Barolo DOCG (Piedmont, Italy) 2013
By Ed McCarthy