2018 Vigna Barbagalli
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
The 2018 Etna Rosso Barbagalli opens with a spice-box bouquet, blending dusty florals and cloves with dried orange peels, incense and currants. It’s surprisingly energetic and lifted on the palate, yet still complex. Zesty acidity enlivens tart wild berries and savory spices. A saturation of salty minerals collects toward the close. The 2018 finishes long yet inward, like a black hole of licorice, violets and plums framed by fine tannins that resonate along the perimeter of the palate. The Barbagalli is a total success for the vintage, one which fans of Pietradolce should not be without. The Barbagalli hails from pre-phylloxera bush vines that are between 80-100 years old, growing at 950 meters on the north side of Etna. This is a Barolo-lover’s Etna Rosso.
Critic scores
Average Score
Walter Speller, jancisrobinson.com
Monica Larner, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
Michele Faro's top-shelf red is the Pietradolce 2018 Etna Rosso Barbagalli, with fruit from a stunning amphitheater of twisted, ancient vines, each with its own distinct form and shape. This vineyard is a sight to see, and I highly recommend a visit to this special place. In the summer, ashy volcano soils feel like fine powder. Black lava stone walls trace the perimeter of this little cru. This vintage is tart and fresh with lots of sour cherry and hints of wild herb that vividly recall the wild fennel that grows in the spring. You might also get caper flower, candied orange and violet. The 2018 vintage had some challenges in terms of rain and summer heat, but these old vines have the deep roots and bulk to withstand changing weather patterns. Only 2,500 bottles were made from this site.
100% Nerello Mascalese from a 100-year-old, pre-phylloxera vineyard at 950 m above sea level. Fermentation in concrete tanks with a total skin maceration of 18 days. Aged for 20 months in French oak tonneaux. Mid ruby with orange tinges. Perfumed, concentrated, deep nose that is still a little brooding. Gorgeous supple cherry and raspberry fruit with fine-ground tannins that stick to the palate and savoury salty notes. Bright acidity that integrates with the concentrated ripe fruit on the finish without losing vigour. (WS)