Menthol, cedar and dark spice aromas fill the glass along with whiffs of forest floor. Showing youthful tension and energy, the savory, tightly wound palate delivers spiced cranberry, blood orange, star anise and earthy notes recalling truffle and black olive. Firm, close-grained tannins and bright acidity keep it well-balanced but give this time to fully develop. Drink 2026-2038.

The most linear of the lineup, the 2018 Barbaresco Cotta is forward, with chalky earth, medicinal herbs, and sour cherry. There is a persistent lifted drive on the palate, with cranberry, orange peel, and dried leaves. Great for those who prefer a more acid and mineral driven style., drink 2024-2036.

A mix of ripe plum, black cherry, soy, eucalyptus and iron flavors plumb the depths of this dense red, which is vibrant and balanced, with ironclad tannins exerting influence on the finish. Needs time. Best from 2025 through 2045.

the 2018 Barbaresco Cotta is one of the showier wines in the range, as it often is. It has that extra bit of mid-palate richness that is missing in some of the wines in this vintage. The fruit profiles leans toward the exotic end of the spectrum. Sweet red cherry, red plum, blood orange, mint, spicecake, kirsch and rose petal fill out the layers, lending a racy flair that is hugely appealing.