2010 Paitin, Barbaresco, Sori Paitin (RT 95+) First bottle from a case bought on release. I’ve followed Paitin wines going back into the 80s, and as a winery they’ve gone through many evolutionary changes. Recently they brought in Dante Scaglione – former head oenologist for Bruno Giacosa – and he fine tuned their vinification, changing the style of the wines dramatically. This is the first vintage where Dante’s work can be seen, felt and tasted and the results are truly impressive. Showing a translucent ruby hue with just the slightest tinge of garnet on the rim, scents of morello cherry, spiced plum, cranberry and a hint of tar and minerality dominate the aromatics. On the palate there is an extraordinary sophisticated texture, masculine and feminine at the same time, with impressive balance, freshness and a caressing delivery of acidity and fine tannin. This really shows the grandness of the 2010 vintage and of the great winemaking at Paitin. The completeness of the package is fabulous, and I cannot recommend a wine more highly. A superb value and a smoking HOT PICK! Drink now – 2040+ Current vintage release price range: $38-50