Palladino 2016 Barolo "Ornato" 750ml

The Palladino 2016 Barolo Ornato shows a lovely bouquet that gives equal footing to dark fruity notes on the one hand and savory touches of earth and leather on the other. There is a nice balance between the two sides, although the overall profile of the wine is large and broad enough to pair with a creamy pasta dish with black truffle shaved on top. The wine shows a considerable jump in intensity and power in the mouth. It registers a 15% alcohol content, and you definitely feel it here, with that heat wrapped into succulent fruit padding. The alcohol is a bit much, so take care to pair this wine with a dish that is rich in cream or butter.

Score: 93 points -- Monica Larner, Wine Advocate, 2020