2020 Produttori del Barbaresco Montestefano Riserva Barbaresco

Montestefano is one of the vineyards with higher concentrations of calcium in the soil; this gives the wine a powerful tannic structure. The extra warmth of the South facing slope is responsible for the full body and meaty texture, resulting in a deep flavoured wine with ripe fruit and tannins. In a wetter season it is usually the last to be picked among the Barbaresco vineyards. This is probably the Barbaresco that reminds more of Barolo where flavours of tar and roses prevail. A truly wonderful Barbaresco, never too heavy on the palate with a classy finish that lingers without overwhelming the senses.

Other Reviews...
Normally, Produttori del Barbaresco President Aldo Vacca puts Montefico, Rabajà, Muncagota and Montestefano at the end of his flight of Riservas. But in this year's presentation, he put the 2020 Barbaresco Riserva Montestefano fourth to last instead of last. This wine is usually the darkest and the most austere in the series. However, the 2020 does not live up to its usual flavor profile. The aromas are quite ripe, even overripe, with prune and raisin. The tannins are soft, leading to a succulent and chewy mouthfeel. My recommendation is to give this wine a shorter drinking window. Drink 2025-2045.
93 points
Monica Larner - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

The 2020 Barbaresco Riserva Montestefano is one of the most elegant, polished wines in this range. Bright red-toned fruit, blood orange, spice, mint and cedar are beautifully lifted. The tannins are remarkably polished for a young, recently bottled Riserva. I admire its poise and elegance. This is an especially refined edition of the Montestefano. In 2020, the mix of vineyards is a bit younger than in the past, as one of the blocks of older vineyards was replanted and not used. If I could have only one of the Riservas in 2020, this would be it! Drink 2025-2035.
97 points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous

In this year and at this stage, the 2020 Barbaresco Riserva Montestefano is not as full as the Montefico, which is the reverse of most years. A deep ruby/red color, it reveals notes of black raspberries, toasted spice, crushed flowers, and sweet earth. The palate is lush and inviting, with a refined and approachable feel. It has a lot more approachability at this stage than you’d expect, with velvety tannins and a long, floating finish. While the palate has less weight, it has an underlying nervous tension, with mouthwatering notes of sanguine, iron-rich mineral accents. Drink 2025-2045.
95+ points
Audrey Frick - jebdunnuck.com