93 POINTS: WINE SPECTATOR - This red evokes pure cherry and black pepper flavors, with hints of tar, earth and tobacco on a lightweight frame. It's more savory than fruity at this stage, with latent ripeness. Dense, chalky tannins rim the finish, with fine balance and length overall.
92 POINTS: VINOUS - The 2017 Barbaresco Martinenga is a very pretty wine. Crushed flowers, cedar, mint, tobacco and dried flowers are all beautifully lifted. In 2017, the Barbaresco has a bit more mid-palate stuffing than is the norm, but that works well in rounding out a Barbaresco that is often on the lighter side. -Antonio Galloni
Situated in the Commune of Barbaresco, Martinenga Barbaresco takes its name from the vineyard. Vines are planted 280 meters above sea level with south-facing exposure. The fruit undergoes natural fermentation with daily pumpovers and completes full malolactic fermentation. The wine ages in 225 liter French barriques for 3 months, then in Slavonian oak casks for 12 months followed by a maturation in bottle for another 12 months.
