Giovanni Rosso is a benchmark producer in Barolo, crafting terroir-driven wines that capture the depth and structure of Serralunga d’Alba. This classic Barolo, based on an exciting blend of plots from Serralunga d'Alba, Castiglione Falletto and Barolo, shows the stylistic signature of the region at its best. The soils are structurally diverse: rich in calcareous marl, loam and mineral intersperses, each parcel contributes its part to the tension of the wine. The 2020 vintage reveals a model year of balance: a cool, precise ripening process with milder temperatures early on, followed by warm but balanced days and cool nights until the harvest.
Radiant ruby glows in the glass, edged with a whisper of garnet at the rim. The bouquet unfolds with crystalline precision—wild strawberry, violet, and spiced apricot weave together above a subtle foundation of tobacco leaf and a savory parmesan crust. On the palate, this Barolo shows generous depth without excess: supple yet firm tannins, poised acidity, and a mineral-driven length shape its character. The finish lingers gracefully, accented by orange zest, rose petal, and a delicate tar-kissed spice, a harmony of personality, equilibrium, and terroir.
Grape Variety: 100% Nebbiolo
95 James Suckling Bright ruby in color, this is a restrained Barolo with wild strawberry, Parma violet, cinnamon and orange peel aromas. The palate is crisp, with dusty tannins, a medium body, good concentration of blood orange flavors, a tight-knit structure and a polished finish. Approachable now due to the balance, but will improve with time. Drink after 2029.
93 Wine Spectator Aromas and flavors of raspberry, cherry, rose, spices and tar highlight this light-bodied yet firmly structured red. Elegant, with a solid line of chalky tannins informing the mouthwatering finish. Best from 2027 through 2043.
93 Falstaff Bright ruby red with garnet reflections. Elegant and inviting fruit on the nose of ripe raspberries, strawberries and cherries, underpinned by pencil lead, leather and mint. Very elegant, fruity entry on the palate, with a delicate melting texture and good balance as it progresses, the tightly woven tannins are finely integrated, with plenty of fruit on the long final.
92 Jeb Dunnuck The 2020 Barolo is a bright red/ruby color and is fresh with aromas of incense, red cherries, a hint of polished sweet leather, and a classic, fresh herbal profile. Medium-bodied, elegant, and weightless, it has a very similar feel to the 2018 vintage, but with a bit more ripeness on the palate and a bit of darker savory earth on the finish. It will show its best in another 6-12 months. Drink 2025-2035.
90 Vinous The 2020 Barolo is a pretty, delicate wine. Crushed red berry fruit, cinnamon, mint, cedar and a kick of orange peel waft from the glass in a translucent, mid-weight Barolo that is pure charm. The 2020 is a fine choice for drinking now and over the next handful of years. Lovely.