Cantina Massara di Burlotto, Verduno Pelaverga DOC (Piedmont, Italy) 2023 (The Piedmont Guy)

Established in 1995, Verduno Pelaverga is a relatively new DOC. Located within the Barolo’s Verduno district, its wines are made from Pelaverga, a large-berried variety that, while common in the region, is difficult to find outside of Italy. Cantina Massara’s Verduno Pelaverga is light – almost a dark rose in color – with clear garnet hues. After some highly recommended time opening, the wine’s nose is inviting with tart cranberry and graphite. Its lighter body is contrasted with high acid and tannic structures. On the flavor side of things, rose petal, wild strawberry, tart pomegranate, and cranberry are easily identifiable. I love how this wine possesses classical Barolo terroir but in its own, unique, and more delicate way. This is a must find and enjoy-now wine.
96 Vince Simmon