2023 Ca del Baio - Barbaresco DOCG Autinbej (750ml)

Autinbej is Giulio Grasso’s Barbaresco blended from several crus, all on sunny, south-west facing slopes with vines planted between 1957 and 1999. The soil is bluish clay-limestone marl. The name is a Piemontese word for the best vineyard exposures and honors his late father, Ernesto. The 2023 is 100% Nebbiolo and spends 24 months in oak followed by months in bottle. Cherry, raspberry, red currant and violet come with sweet spice, a hint of cocoa, chalky minerality and a touch of tar and rose. It’s medium to full-bodied, with youthful tannins and a long, persistent finish. It’s approachable now with a decant, and it will keep for years. Pair it with roast duck, pork, braised red meats or truffle risotto.