Aromas of pine forest dark spice new leather and hint of truffle form the enticing nose on the impressive 2020 Rio Sordo Riserva. On the palate taut extremely refined tannins accompany pomegranate strawberry citrus and star anise. Drink 2026–2032. Abv: 14.5% Kerin O’Keefe September 2024

The 2020 Barbaresco Riserva Rio Sordo is pretty closed today which is probably a very good sign for its aging prospects as this site tends to produce wines that are more open than this. Dark cherry plum leather incense and tobacco offer a decidedly somber expression of Rio Sordo. The 2020 clearly needs time. - By Antonio Galloni on September 2024

The Produttori del Barbaresco 2020 Barbaresco Riserva Rio Sordo comes from an area that is further removed from the Tanaro River and has southwestern exposures. It shows a typical profile for Nebbiolo with rich fruit a velvety mouthfeel and textural volume that is delivered with ample blackberry blackcurrant and spice. The character of this wine is generous and rich. There is plenty of meat on these bones. Monica Larner Published: Jan 30 2025

The 2020 Rio Sordo is very aromatic and exuberant featuring blood orange citrus peel cherry and rose hip flavors. Succulent and approachable with a light coating of tannins it’s in the line of Pora and Pajé if a touch denser. - Bruce Sanderson 03/25 This red bursts with cherry strawberry and rose aromas and flavors plus mineral white pepper and anise elements. Firm and lively showing accessibility and harmony. Enjoyable now but there’s no rush. Best from 2026 through 2040.—B.S.