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! - By Antonio Galloni on September 2024

The 2020 Produttori Montestefano Riserva is absolutely gorgeous boasting aromas of violet forest floor red-skinned fruit and new leather. On the palate fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity support raspberry compote red cherry white pepper and star anise. This has a slightly more delicate tannic structure compared to previous vintages that’s not only a feature of the vintage but also due to the fact that a parcel of fifty-year-old vines had to be replanted meaning the average age of the vines for the 2020 vintage is 35-40 years old. Drink 2026–2032. Abv: 14.5% Kerin O’Keefe September 2024

There is a darker expression of fruit in the 2020 Montestefano black cherry blackberry and touch of black currant with a solid graphite underpinning. This is more serious vertical and brooding for the range despite its fluidity. Excellent balance and terrific length. - Bruce Sanderson 03/25 A haunting aroma of rose leads off underscored with raspberry cherry white pepper and mineral flavors. This red is elegant and firmly structured with refined tannins and vibrant acidity driving the resonant finish. The white pepper note returns on the aftertaste. Shows superb balance and length. Best from 2028 through 2045.—B.S.