2020 Barbaresco Asili Riserva Magnum

Robert Parker - 96

Packaged with the red label, the Bruno Giacosa 2020 Barbaresco Riserva Asili was a little shy when I tasted it, but it clearly has the runway for long cellar aging. It opens to a medium-plus texture with a darker hue of ruby red. The tannins are elegant and fine, and although this was a warm vintage, the fruit feels very fresh and taut. You get good structure and firm tannins to carry it over the long term.

James Suckling - 98

Gorgeous perfumes of flowers and dark fruit with orange peel. Full-bodied with plenty of fruit and firm and integrated tannins. Thick silky texture. Fresh in the finish. It goes on for minutes.

Decanter - 96

Bottled in 2022, the Asili Riserva slowly divulges plum blossoms, cherry, crushed allspice and a touch of incense. The palate is effortlessly balanced with the silkiest mouthfeel and extraordinary freshness. I love the dark earthiness that emerges with a faint touch of tar. The tannins are tightly knit, demonstrating an elegance that will stand the test of time. Like several of her peers, Bruna Giacosa compares 2020 to 2000, describing the pair as more elegant than the structured vintages of 2021 and 2001 which have their own resemblance. She voices her preference for the former duo.