Like its Barolo sibling currently on offer, Feyles ages their Barbaresco Riserva for no less than five years before letting it exit their cellar in tiny quantities. Case in point: Even at eight years old, today’s 2013 is their current release and it still has zero market presence! I must again reiterate that we only have a few cases available on offer. 

This Nebbiolo gem comes from barely 1.5 hectares of mature vines planted in “Montesommo,” a sub-section of the “Bordini” cru in the famed village of Neive. After a hand harvest, it ferments naturally, sees an extended maceration, and matures two years in Slavonian oak before an unfined/unfiltered bottling.   

After no less than one hour in a decanter—be mindful of sediment—Feyles’ 2013 Barbaresco opens up with heady yet delicate perfumes of candied violets, crushed rose, lush cherries, pekoe tea, and loose tobacco with a fine-grained backbone of spice, herbs, and sandalwood. The palate is medium-plus, silky, and substantial, delivering soft (still primary) dark fruits and powerful mineral nuance. It’s poised to keep evolving over the next 7-10 years but will easily keep beyond that. Enjoy!