2015 Barolo Riserva ‘Vigna Lazzarito’, Ettore Germano
£295 per 6 bottle case in bond
By no means the deepest Barolo in the glass, this captures that garnet, bricky hue so typical of Nebbiolo. The aromas are unmistakably Nebbiolo too – rose, cinnamon, blood orange – this 2015 possesses a stunning set of aromatics. Such an elegant example, which signals a deft hand in winemaking, this Lazzarito is silky and refined, with sweet small red fruits, discreet hints of exotic spice and a fine vein of freshness. Long, pure, persistent with the merest savoury nuance from extended ageing, this is an exceptional showing. Nothing is forced, the winemaking is hard to fault and the result is a head-turning Barolo that might prove tricky to resist in three to four years’ time, but will undoubtedly reward cellarage for a decade and longer. A total knockout, particularly if you look for refinement in Barolo. 2024-2037. (SL)
94 points, Monica Larner, robertparker.com
The 2015 Barolo Riserva Lazzarito (with fruit from Serralunga d'Alba) shows a generous, full-bodied consistency, with dark fruit, spice, baking clove and other dustings of exotic spice, such as cardamom and clove. That spiciness washes through the bouquet, and you can feel it on the palate, where the wine is structured and firm. Some 4,500 bottles were released. 2024-2040.
I haven’t drawn many 2015s to your attention, but this is too good to resist, particularly when offered at such a fair price. Frankly, in a blind line up, I think I would have placed it in 2016 for its sheer refinement. A really pleasing surprise!
Please let us know of your interest.
All the best,
Simon