Barolo Marcenasco DOCG 2016 Renato Ratti

This is one of the most versatile, accessible and inviting wines to be found anywhere in the Barolo appellation. That is the legacy of this wine, and the Renato Ratti 2016 Barolo Marcenasco proudly carries forward in this tradition. Indeed, it takes it a big step forward, as this is my favorite edition tasted in years. Fruit comes from a single vineyard located just outside the winery door. Marcenasco was farmed by Renato Ratti and his son Piero, and it remains the flagship of this estate. This vintage is beautifully perfumed and vibrant, and the wine tastes terrific just out of the gate. The finish is delicate, tightly knit and feathery light on the palate.

I'm not sure when it happened exactly, but the branding of this estate seems to have transitioned from Renato Ratti to Ratti. I mention that for housekeeping purposes, although I have not yet officially changed the name of the estate in our database. To more important topics: I want to underline that this is the finest set of wines I have tasted from Ratti. I double decanted most of my samples and kept them in my cellar (at 55 degrees Fahrenheit) for about a week after they were shipped to me. I found all these samples to be in glorious and pristine condition. The 2016 vintage is a home run for many estates in the Langhe, but the score jump with these Ratti samples is significant and inspiring.

A pure, subtle Barolo 2016, showing poached strawberries, red-apple tart, rose-water and dried cloves. Medium-bodied and tight with fine tannins, steely acidity and a medium-chewy finish. Drink from 2022.

Aromas and flavors of macerated cherry, raspberry, spice, earth and burnished wood mark this lithe, taut red. It's a bit reticent now, but has the balance and intensity to reveal more facets in due time. Excellent overall balance and length. Best from 2022 through 2038.

The 2016 Barolo Marcenasco is a very pretty wine. Orange peel, spice, sweet red berry fruit, mint and white pepper give the 2016 striking aromatic lift to match its gracious, perfumed personality. This is an especially airy, ethereal style with exotic aromatics and lithe structure. The 2016 looks like a wine that will be at its best over the next 10-15 years.