93pts Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

This edition of 8,000 bottles is part of the estate's late-release program that lets us dig back into the Marchesi di Barolo historic cellars. From a hot summer that saw ruthless, dry heat and strong winds from Africa carrying the red sands of the Maghreb, the 2012 Barolo Riserva has evolved into a very nice wine indeed, with licorice, dried currant, dried mint and iron ore. This is a terrific step back in time. It ends a bit heavy, but it has aged quite gracefully, so enjoy it now.

93pts Wine Spectator

Maturing nicely, this red's plum, cherry, eucalyptus and iron aromas and flavors are coming to the fore. There are still dense, dusty tannins, yet even these have mellowed, making for a more harmonious experience. Excellent length. Drink now through 2040. 583 cases made, 75 cases imported.

92pts Wine Enthusiast

This opens with aromas of black-skinned berry, eucalyptus and a whiff of cedar. The savory, balanced palate offers dried black cherry, clove and tobacco alongside fine-grained tannins and firm acidity. Drink 2021–2030.

92pts James Suckling

A tight and focused red with aromas and flavors of strawberries, hazelnuts and almonds. Medium body, integrated tannins and a fresh finish.

Vinous

Marchesi di Barolo's 2012 Barolo Riserva is a solid wine to drink now and over the next few years. Sweet tobacco, cedar, licorice, dried herbs and red fruit all open up in the glass. Even so, it would be nice to see more depth, intensity and overall pedigree for a Riserva. Given its mid-weight structure and feel, I would prefer to drink the 2012 over the next handful of years. All of the elements are very nicely balanced.

Winemaker Notes

Deep ruby red with orange highlights. An intense rose bouquet with scents of licorice and spice. Full bodied, austere, yet elegant. A pleasant “goudron” becomes noticeably apparent after 7-8 years of aging.

Rich, dry and deep in flavor, Barolo is an excellent accompaniment to red meats and spicy cheeses.

Blend: 100% Nebbiolo