The 2019 Cantina del Pino Barbaresco Ovello is the estate’s signature cru and a benchmark expression of one of Barbaresco’s most revered vineyards. Situated at the northern end of the appellation, Ovello’s higher elevation and limestone-rich marl soils produce Nebbiolo of exceptional fragrance, structure and longevity. The Vacca family has deep historical ties to the vineyard, with Cantina del Pino located directly within Ovello itself. Crafted using traditional methods, including extended maceration and ageing in large oak casks, the wine is a pure reflection of both site and vintage.
The nose is intensely aromatic, revealing rose petal, red cherry and wild strawberry layered with blood orange, mint, crushed stone and sweet spice. The palate combines remarkable finesse with underlying power, delivering vibrant red fruit, finely etched tannins and bright acidity. Antonio Galloni awarded the wine 96 points, describing it as one of the standout wines of the vintage, while Wine Advocate praised its precision, elegance and distinctive mineral character. The finish is long, savoury and beautifully detailed, with layers of floral and earthy complexity unfolding over time.
Ben’s Recommendation:
A classic Ovello Barbaresco that perfectly captures the vineyard’s combination of perfume, structure and age-worthiness. Elegant yet powerful, it pairs beautifully with truffle pasta, braised veal, roast duck, game birds, porcini mushrooms and aged Parmigiano Reggiano. While already stunning with extended decanting, this is a wine built for the cellar and should evolve magnificently through 2045 and beyond.
