The Old World's potential to produce vintages with individual character is what makes it so interesting and 2018 Barolo is a great example of the unique expressions possible each year. In 2018, Piedmont overcame challenges to produce some fantastic wines - but there are clear differences from producer to producer. Antonio Galloni calls the 2018 Barolo vintage "an enigma" that produced "a number of gorgeous wines". James Suckling agrees, saying that "producers made exceptional wines through hard work."

Yields were reduced due to hail damage - the first in the spring and second in the height of summer. These storms required diligent work - particularly for the latter - to manage quality of fruit in the vineyard. In some sites the crop was reduced by over 50%. There were, too, higher levels of precipitation than normal in spring and early summer, which put stress on the plant and required work in the vineyard to prevent moisture-related diseases. The mid-to-late summer months were warm and dry, allowing for a later harvest at full ripeness. 

The wines have a transparency, delicacy and freshness unlike the structured 2017s or rich 2016s: these are unforced, layered and approachable wines that will be delicious to drink almost from release. Suckling believes the 2018s "have a seductive brightness and delicacy." Unlike "bigger" vintages such as 2017 or 2016, they come in a softer cloak that shines from the bottle at an early stage. Thin skins required careful handling and precise extraction, and many did so very well. Many compare the vintage to 2012, 2008 and 1998. This vintage eschews the perception that Nebbiolo wines have to be hard in youth, there is a Pinot Noir-like approachability that will appeal to those who typically find Piedmont wines hard to love. 

Below we have a selection of wines that we feel represent the best of the vintage from producers that stayed true to their house styles. The majority of these wines can be enjoyed from a younger stage - and will give plenty of pleasure whilst waiting for their 2017 and 2016 counterparts to reach their full potential.