We just returned from our vacation in Piedmonte. We had a great time, now let's taste some of our souvenirs.

The current vintage spent nearly 12 years on the lees and was disgorged in the third quarter of 2025: The La Scolca Soldati 2013 D’Antan Spumante offers notes of blossoms, pineapple, a hint of coffee, and almonds; it is medium-bodied, creamy, mineral-driven, and fresh. The wine is still young and would benefit from a few years of aging, yet it drinks very well right now. 18.3/20 points.

The Giacomo Borgogno 2021 Timorasso Derthona Scaldapulce ranks among the best Timorassos. Initially reserved, the wine requires plenty of air to open up, revealing aromas of blossoms, Earl Grey tea, gummy bears, pineapple, and exotic fruits. It is full-bodied and powerful, with a slight bitter note; it is fresh, long, dense, spicy, highly mineral, balanced, complex, and creamy. It delivers full power without heaviness. 19/20 points.

The Paolo Scavino 2004 Barolo Rocche dell' Annunziata Riserva is astonishingly youthful. It displays notes of blackberry, herbs, a touch of underbrush, and balsamic nuances, with plum emerging upon aeration. It is full-bodied, balanced, and dense, featuring abundant fine tannins and structure; the finish is medium-to-long with slight barrique influence and a hint of bitterness, while a touch of bacon emerges with air. It is complex, youthful, and vibrant. 19/20 points.