93 point

A juicy red with ripe, polished tannins that are velvety and caressing. Lots of ripe-berry character and hints of cedar. It's full-bodied and flavorful at the end. Better after 2022.

92 point

The Arnaldo Rivera 2016 Barolo Bussia is actually a blend of two sites located within Bussia at about 410 meters above sea level. The vines were planted in 1969, with more plantings between 1981 and 2003. Starting with the 2018 vintage, a third site in Bussia Gabutti adjacent to Romirasco will be added to the blend. This vintage boasts a dark and nicely saturated appearance with bold cherry, blackberry, tar and licorice. I also get a distinct aroma that reminds me of bitter almond or toasted hazelnut. The tannins are slightly astringent and textured, requiring more bottle age until they subside. Some 4,500 bottles were released.