2017 Produttori del Barbaresco Ovello Riserva Barbaresco

Ovello is the northernmost vineyard in the village of Barbaresco and among the first 5 single-vineyards produced back in 1967. Soils are calcareous and rich in clay: these characterics combined with the cooler microclimate shape its exuberant fruit profile and its fuller body. Due to its powerful structure, some years of bottle ageing are usually required to balance that out.

Other Reviews....
One of the bigger productions (with 17,744 bottles) in the Produttori del Barbaresco's portfolio is the 2017 Barbaresco Riserva Ovello. All of the Riservas in this vintage are characterized by especially exuberant and bold aromas, and this bottle is a prime example. Cassis, wild cherry, tobacco, rusty nail and licorice build intensity. The wine is tapered and silky in texture, but it also offers a good amount of power (and 15% alcohol) to carry it through the aging process. Drink 2024 - 2045.
94+ points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (Jun 2022)

The 2017 Barbaresco Riserva Ovello is a heady, explosive wine. I don't think I have ever tasted an Ovello from the Produttori with this much heft. The strong mineral and saline accents typical of this site are present, but they are matched pound for pound by notable mid-palate richness and intensity in its fruit. The 2017 is a brooding powerhouse that needs time to unwind. Drink 2027-2039.
94 points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous

Taut and sinewy, boasting cherry, black currant, grass, iron and tar notes. Powerful tannins drive the finish, which is compact for now. In the end, this is lightly astringent, but has plenty of drive and should find equilibrium with time. Best from 2026 through 2043.
94 points
Bruce Sanderson - Wine Spectator

Menthol, star anise and blue flower aromas mingle with botanical herb. The full-bodied palate recalls cherry extract, licorice, fruitcake and baking spice alongside densely woven, fine-grained tannins. Drink through 2029.
93 points
Kerin O'Keefe - Wine Enthusiast