Barbaresco Starderi La Spinetta Riserva di G. Rivetti 2008 (1.5L)

93 Points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous: "La Spinetta's 2008 Barbaresco Riserva Vigneto Starderi (magnum) is more overtly unctuous and ripe than the Gallina tasted alongside it. Super-ripe dark cherry, mocha, vanillin, sweet spice and licorice infuse the Starderi with tremendous textural richness and intensity. I find the exotic, jammy notes of the 2008 hard to get past, but this style will undoubtedly appeal to readers who enjoy more overtly flamboyant wines." 08/19

96 Points, Monica Larner, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "This carefully evolved Barbaresco shows a finer texture and fiber than you might have expected given its relatively robust construction. You get loads of cola and balsamic herb from the 2008 Barbaresco Riserva Starderi (Magnum) and, of course, not as much primary fruit. This charmer of a wine confidently exudes tertiary notes of licorice, tar and smoky aromas with every pour. It's a mentholicious and balsamic Barbaresco that I wouldn't be afraid to serve now, at least not for a group of friends who absolutely deserve it. Only 600 magnums exist." 06/16