Versio Francesco, Barbaresco, 2022

Francesco Versio learned at the side of the legendary Bruno Giacosa team and is now one of Piedmont's most sought-after young traditionalists, working tiny plots in the Neive corner of Barbaresco. His winemaking is classic to the core: long macerations and aging in large old casks. This Barbaresco shows the perfumed, elegant face of Nebbiolo, with rose, red cherry, tar, and dried herbs over fine, firm tannins. The 2022 is youthful and will reward a few years in the cellar, though a decant brings plenty of pleasure now.