Sordo Gioso Langhe Nebbiolo 2021

Anyone who enjoys delicious Piedmont reds will surely be familiar with the family operation of Sordo (I say family, but it is one of the larger producers in the region and has a more extensive portfolio of Barolo crus than almost any other producer). This wine is a mix of Nebb fruit from various parts of Barolo – Gioso is simply the name given to a range at the winery in honour of the patriarch and head of operations, Giorgio Sordo). 2021 is another superb vintage in the region. This is an alluring style with earthy notes, mushrooms, animal skins, leather, soy, dry herbs and a touch of redcurrants. There is focus and grip here with impressive length. Time in the glass saw gorgeous cherries emerge. This will provide pleasure for at least a decade and is cracking value. If the prices of Barolo cause you pause, jump all over this. All the glories of Piedmont without a crippling price tag (though they are nothing like Burgundy, so filling your cellar now with good Barolo will make you look wise in the years to come).