🏰 The 2017 vintage for Piedmont, where Barbaresco is produced, was challenging with an unusually warm and dry winter, early budbreak, and later, vicious hailstorms and frosts. Despite these difficulties, the region managed to produce some lovely surprises, showcasing how far growers have come in dealing with summer heat. The Guido Rivella Montestefano Barbaresco 2017 is a red wine made from Nebbiolo grapes. It presents a balsamic cherry nose with hints of mint and gingerbread. On the palate, it offers soft and ripe fruit balanced by acidity and soft, long tannins, concluding with a sour-cherry finish. While not showing immense depth, it is generally considered satisfying. Vinous rated it 90 points, noting scents of cherry, lavender, and rose petal, with lovely depth in a mid-weight style typical of the vintage, alongside a slightly candied profile. Wine Enthusiast described aromas of underbrush, camphor, and pressed rose, with a palate of close-grained drying tannins, dried cherry, coconut, and a hint of roasted coffee bean, leading to a rather short, astringent finish. 【Satisfying mid-weight style with balsamic cherry notes】. 🍴 This Barbaresco pairs well with lamb. Consider pairing it with roasted lamb chops with herbs or a rich mushroom risotto. For an Eastern touch, try it with Cantonese-style roast goose or a hearty braised beef brisket. 🥂 This wine is perfect for a sophisticated dinner party or a special occasion where a classic Italian red is appreciated. It's also suitable for a quiet evening enjoying a fine meal.