Ettore Germano Barolo DOCG Riserva LAZZARITO 2017, 0,75 L

A wine of this calibre doesn’t need scores — it needs time and the right moment to be truly appreciated. The 2017 vintage adds a compelling twist to the story: while its predecessor, the 2016, is famed for its immense ageing potential, this Barolo reveals its character earlier without sacrificing depth or structure.

2017 was one of the hottest and driest years Piedmont has ever seen. The heat set in early and lasted through the summer, challenging vintners but producing dense, concentrated grapes. Then came the saving grace: a cool autumn, which preserved the essential acidity that defines a great Barolo. The result is a vintage with a captivating balance of ripe fruit, firm structure, and refreshing lift.

In the glass, this Barolo delivers everything you'd expect from a top-tier expression of Nebbiolo: aromatic herbal spice, dark berries, a hint of liquorice, and a commanding presence on the palate. The tannins are prominent but more approachable than in 2016, while the ripe fruit and vibrant acidity create remarkable harmony and drinkability.

For those who can't wait, this vintage is already enjoyable now — ideally after generous aeration in a decanter. Still, as with all great Barolo, patience will be rewarded. Over the coming years, this wine will unfold in complexity and depth. A compelling, cellar-worthy investment — and a vintage that beautifully bridges power and early elegance.