Cascina Val del Prete, Roero Riserva (Piedmont, Italy) 2016

 This medium-size family winery shows interests in both tradition and innovation, does excellent work with Arneis, Nebbiolo and Barbera, and is a house to watch with young talent and a bright future.  This wonderful Riserva from an indisputably great vintage could be served proudly alongside any top Barolo or Barbaresco, as it shows gorgeous fruit with ripe, expressive fruit notes recalling cherries, raspberries and wild strawberries.  Primary fruit sweetness is still abundant as this nears 6 years of age, with emerging savory notes lending complexity.  Almost all oak notes have been absorbed, and this is poised for a full decade of delicious drinking ahead.