Damilano Lecinquevigne Barolo 2019

The second of our brace of 2019 Baroli is the darker of the pair, perhaps the result of having spent only 24 rather than 36 months in wood. It, too, is a wine of gentleness and refinement, with bright plum fruits and warm spice both apparent in the aromas, within the context of an aromatic profile both seamless and harmonious. It’s ample in the palate yet round-contoured, with acidity here as important an element of the wine’s structure as is tannin. The tannins, indeed, are unintimidating and supportive – but resonant and flavoury, too, in best Barolo style. The overall impression of an easy-rolling roundness is underscored by the wealth of fruit which sings through the palate. For all that, this is a serious Barolo which could easily take five to ten years’ further ageing: an ideal introduction to the pleasures of the 2019 vintage in this emblematic Piedmontese region. Best in Show. [Drink into late 2030s.] Score – 97. (Decanter World Wine Awards, 2023)