Ca’Viola, Barolo DOCG (Piedmont, Italy) 2017

 "Beppe" Caviola is one of the most important oenologists in Italy.  He has worked as a winemaking consultant for many notable producers.  A striking wine, his 2017 Nebbiolo impresses with its depth and structure.  Notes recalling forest floor, tart red berries, and balsamic aromas meld into suggestions of dried black cherry, blood orange, star anise, and leather.  Medium-plus in body, its tannins are present but perfectly woven into the fabric of the wine, with a long and aromatic finish.  The marriage of power and finesse works beautifully here.