2021 Barbaresco Riserva, Montestefano, Produttori del Barbaresco

The 2021 Barbaresco Riserva Montestefano is a dense, hulking wine. Powerful and dense to the core, the Montestefano is a big, broad-shouldered wine that is going to need a few years to be at its most expressive. Dark-toned fruit, new leather, spice, menthol are all amplified in this potent Barbaresco. ~ (97) Antonio Galloni , Vinous 10-1-2025

Youthful on the nose, showing bright, lively aromas of red and dark fruits, leafy lightness, wild strawberries and black cherries with a whiff of blood oranges and earthy, chocolaty depth. The gorgeous full-bodied palate, structured and extracted, has firm, velvety tannins and tense acidity, leading to a balanced, endless, licorice finish. March 2026 release. Drink or hold. ~ (96) Aldo Fiordelli, JamesSuckling.com 11-18-2025

The 2021 Barbaresco Riserva Montestefano pours a medium red color and remains somewhat shy at this early stage with notes of black raspberries and dusty earth. Medium-bodied, it has more structure to the tannins and a coiled feel, with refreshing notes of orange citrus and mandarin that suit its firmer frame. Historically, this site was sometimes described as the “Barolo of Barbaresco” for its structure. Roughly 13,333 bottles were produced. Drink 2027-2050. ~ (97) Audrey Frick, JebDunnuck.com 4-8-2026

Black currant, blackberry, violet, tobacco and sweet spices highlight this suave, fruity red. Opulent for the vintage and solidly built, with a long, resonant finish that echoes the fruit and adds iron and mineral notes. Excellent length. Best from 2029 through 2047. 1,500 cases made, 700 cases imported. ~ (96) Bruce Sanderson, Wine Spectator 3-25-2026