Continuing in a tour de force presentation of some of the best growing sites in Barolo, the Scavino family introduces this, their second vintage, from the Ravera cru of Novello. The Paolo Scavino 2016 Barolo Ravera draws its fruit from an east-facing parcel that is one of the last to be harvested each year. The site shows cool climate conditions even in the warmer years. In a classic vintage such as this, the wine delivers pretty balance and integration. The character of the wine reflects the dark, sultry fruit qualities that we associate with Ravera—prune, plum, blackberry, tilled earth, truffle and an appetite-arousing touch of smoked bacon. That compilation of aromas is simply fantastic, and the wine shows a terrific quality of tannins, imparting inner tension, sharpness and precision.
97+ points, Monica Larner, Wine Advocate (Jul 2020)
Scavino’s 2016 Barolo Ravera is another highlight in this range. Tense, brilliant and finely sculpted, the 2016 has so much going on. Crushed flowers, iron, mint and cedar add beguiling aromatic breadth to a core of translucent, intense Nebbiolo fruit. The 2016 really captures the energy that makes wines from this site so distinctive. The 2016 was fermented in stainless steel and aged entirely in cask.
97 points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous (Feb 2020)
This is all about purity of cherry and raspberry fruit, with hints of rose, mineral and wild underbrush. Very firmly structured, showing terrific balance and a long, energetic finish. Very sleek and graceful. Best from 2023 through 2045. 500 cases made, 150 cases imported.
95 points, Bruce Sanderson, Wine Spectator (Nov 2020)
This is another second-release wine for Scavino, the fruit coming off an east-facing plot in Ravera. The wine’s vibrant acidity is characteristic of this cru, with freshness that lasts for days after the bottle has been opened. It pulses through flavors of macerated black cherry and rhubarb, picking up notes of warm spice and bright orange zest.
95 points, Wine & Spirits (Dec 2020)
Lots of blue-fruit aromas, as well as ripe strawberries, violets and lavender, following through to a medium body, fine tannins and a really polished and creamy texture at the end. Try after 2022.
95 points, James Suckling (Oct 2020)