Tenuta Carretta, Barbaresco (Piedmont, Italy) 2017

 The 2017 vintage in Piedmont has the potential to be overlooked because of all the justifiable praise for the 2016 vintage there.  Don’t overlook this engaging Barbaresco from the Garassino vineyard located in Treiso.  Wines from vineyards in this northwestern part of Treiso tend toward elegance rather than power.  Tenuta Carretta’s Garassino epitomizes that character.  Its explosive floral nose draws you in immediately.  Firm, but not aggressive, tannins support a captivating and elegant array of fruitiness underpinned by mineral qualities.  The overall impression is graceful, not powerful.  A delightful hint of tarriness appears in the finish.  Its elegance makes this youthful Barbaresco approachable even now with a robust pasta dish or grilled meat.