The very first Single Vineyard Barolo produced by the Pio Family, for the first time in 1985. Great structure, power, concentration, with a very long life. Produced in small quantities.
Critical Acclaim
James Suckling 96 points-Complex on the nose, offering a blend of ripe red berries, nutty minerals, orange-peel and spice. Some savory, almost meaty notes, too. Full, compact and intense, yet there’s a graceful feel to the palate, thanks to the really fine web of tannin. Super polish and promise here. Classy. Needs some time.
Wine Spectator 95 points-Spicy, displaying white pepper, cumin, fennel seed and mineral notes that frame a core of macerated plum and cherry. Dense, viscous and lively, this is balanced and expressive. Ends with excellent length and power. Best from 2025
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate 94 points-The 2018 Barolo Ornato reveals some very distant hot-vintage aromas that are vaguely reminiscent of dried raspberry or stewed plum. Nebbiolo is extremely sensitive to the warmer temperatures and even a hint of extra ripeness is easily detected. However, the wine is fluid and ever-evolving. Those fruit-driven aromas soon transition over to brooding complexity with smoke, tar and licorice. The Ornato paints a wide picture of that characteristic Serralunga d'Alba intensity.
Wine & Spirits 94 points-Ornato feels broad and powerful for the vintage, the black-cherry flavors gripped by firm, ferrous tannins and underlined by a streak of graphite. Notes of licorice and brown spice emerge with air, along with savory hints that lend complexity to the bold fruit tones.
