G. B. Burlotto Barolo Acclivi 2016

Barolo 'Acclivi' is produced from the steep slopes of the historic vineyards of Verduno, the northernmost municipality of the Barolo area. This example - from the exemplary G.B. Burlotto winery - is round with lovely red fruit flavours and a refreshing structure. Earth and tobacco notes also emerge, as do the dusty tannins which define Barolo. 

96+/100 - Opening to rich darkness and intensity, the 2016 Barolo Acclivi shows vibrant energy. This wine represents a blend of fruit from across various vineyard sites, including old vines in Monvigliero, Neirane and Rocche dell’Olmo. The wine shows dark fruit, smoked bacon, the same pepper spices we got with the Pelaverga and crushed flowers. The wine shows stems and bramble, although they are not green or astringent. A better descriptor would be spice, cinnamon and unripe cherry. 7,000 bottles produced. - Monica Larner, Wine Advocate

97/100 - The 2016 Barolo Acclivi is a deep, plush and hauntingly beautiful wine with tremendous power, dazzling intensity and remarkable richness. An ample, expansive and broad wine of striking inner perfume and sweetness, the 2016 is flat-out stunning. Crushed raspberry, mint, spice and blood orange infuse the 2016 with incredible depth and complexity before it finishes with mind-blowing intensity. All I can say is: Wow! - Antonio Galloni, Vinous

17.5/20 - Verduno. 7,500 bottles produced. A little deeper than the classic Barolo of the same vintage and a little brooding with spicy notes adding great depth to the fruit on the nose. Energetic, profound red-fruit palate with a layer of firm yet finely sculpted, grainy tannins. 14.5%. Drink 2022 – 2034 - Walter Speller, JancisRobinson.com

96/100 - Fabio Alessandria describes Acclivi as the old concept of Barolo Riserva: a selection and blend which best represents the vintage. With varying proportions of the Monvigliero, Rocche dell'Olmo and Neirane crus, it is always made exclusively from Verduno fruit. Initially closed, the 2016 eventually reveals a captivating balsamic personality with winter mint and sage joining Verduno’s telltale spice and wildflowers. Despite compact fruit and tactile, clayey tannins, this remains fluid and tangy with a pomegranate lift. There's plenty of stuffing and power to carry it through a couple of decades. - Michaela Morris, Decanter