Barbaresco “Basarin” DOCG 2023

Az. Agr. Sottimano | Piedmont
Az. Agr. Sottimano s.s.a. | Loc. Cottà 21 | IT 12052 Neive

29562823 · 0,75 l · 110,67 €/l · Price (DE) incl. VAT, excl. Shippingavailable immediately

Basarin is the latest chapter in the Sottimano story – acquired in 2014, it was the fifth cru to complete the portfolio. And, at the same time, the most complex. The small Basarin MGA stretches across a varied landscape characterised by steep slopes and considerable altitude – a terrain that seems almost rugged compared to the gentle hills of other Neive vineyards. The soils are of Miocene-Helvetian origin, predominantly calcareous and interspersed with sandy veins – a composition that allows for both mineral tension and aromatic depth. The vines here vary in age and aspect, which places an additional demand on the winemaking process: even more precise selection and harvesteven more careful harvestof harvest. This is followed by the consistent Sottimano method: fermentation on natural yeasts, long maceration, spontaneous malolactic fermentation, 18 to 22 months in specially crafted barriques, and one year's bottle ageing. No filtration. No fining.

An intense ruby red. On the nose, balsamic depth, spices, ripe red fruits and a subtle yet persistent minerality – more complex than the others, underpinned by a natural tension and precision. On the palate, it is richly structured, with great complexity, fine tannins and a lingering finish of herbs and light stone. Basarin – the latest chapter and the deepest expression. SUPERIORE.DE

"A spicy wine with notes of graphite, liquorice root, strawberries, red cherries and leather. Juicy and toasty on the palate, with medium body, very fresh acidity and well-integrated, velvety tannins." James Suckling

"The Barbaresco Basarin 2023 is deep, resonant and highly expressive. Expansive layers envelop a core of blue and purple fruits. Lavender, menthol, espresso and a medley of spices blend in the glass with floral notes that lend it finesse. This sensual, multi-layered Barbaresco is a true delight. It is the most approachable of the 2023 Barbarescos available here." Vinous

"Red berries that oscillate between fresh and candied sweetness, whilst floral and spicy notes paint a picture of pure Basarin beauty. On the palate, the same thoughtful depth is evident, with juicy fruit meeting structure in a way that makes you understand why some wineries deserve their reputation. This is what happens when everything – the terroir, the winemaker and the vintage – is perfectly in harmony." Wine Enthusiast

"The Basarin leans into the dark, generous fruit of the warm growing season, with ripe blackberry and black cherry at its core. The wine shows an accessible side with soft, furry nuances that lend an inviting texture to the bouquet. Earthy notes of iris root and licorice add complexity, while the tannins are polished and beautifully integrated, giving the wine a smooth, harmonious finish. Fermented with indigenous yeasts and aged in large oak casks." Wine Advocate

"Following the cancellation of the 2022 vintage, Sottimano is back with its full range of five MGA bottlings. They have undergone a two-month underwater maceration – a gentle extraction process designed to enhance elegance – and spent slightly less time in oak than usual. The Basarin exudes a promising blend of roses, cedarwood and sweet herbs. On the palate, it is taut and dense, currently focusing more on structure than on body. It is relatively dense but not rich, and leaves a lingering salty impression. I suspect that further ageing will increase the volume and balance out the internal components." Decanter