2021 Barolo Le Vigne Luciano Sandrone

98 Suckling: This is an austere wine that’s complex and multilayered, with aromas of fresh red currants, red cherries, violets and a hint of licorice. Graphite dominates the flavors, with a full body, firm velvety tannins and long, juicy, energetic and perfectly woven acidity. Polished, elegant finish. Drinkable now, but best from 2026.

96 WineSpectator: Eucalyptus, juniper and tar notes mingle with cherry, raspberry and plum fruit in this dense red. Assertive tannins hold court on the finish, with a light yet not overbearing astringency. It’s all driven by beautiful acidity, leaving a lasting aftertaste. Best from 2029 through 2048. 1,915 cases made. 

Parker 97+: PayThis is a blend of fruit from Le Costa di Monforte in Monforte d'Alba, Baudana in Serralunga d'Alba, Villero in Castiglione Falletto, Vignane in Barolo and Merli in Novello. That wide span of fruit across various exposures, elevations and soil types becomes the Luciano Sandrone 2021 Barolo Le Vigne. I always have special affection for this wine, and between the Aleste and Le Vigne, this is my preferred bottle. I love the brightness and focus of the fruit, the pretty complexity and the rich mouthfeel. The fruit aromas are laced with licorice, cola and spice. The high notes are quite apparent in this excellent vintage. I came back to taste this wine 24 hours later and found those notes to be just as intense and beautiful. This is a release of 23,000 bottles.