Drink: 2029-2047
98 Points Kerin O'Keefe
You’ll find compelling aromas of rosemary, hay, camphor and crushed mint on the intensely fragrant and fabulous 2021 Muncagota. Full-bodied and loaded with energy, the savory palate features ripe red cherry, black raspberry, citrus and dark spice as well as the rosemary note from the nose. Firm, well-integrated tannins provide support and give the finish grip.
96 Points James Suckling
Balsamic style jumps out of the glass, with herb, eucalyptus and potpourri aromas alongside watermelon and mint-filled chocolate. The graceful attack shows ripe, elegant tannins, larger-grained in the end, with long, refreshing acidity and a savory finish. March 2026 release. Drink or hold.
95 Points Wine Spectator
Supple in texture and beautifully balanced, this red almost seems to defy gravity with its airy feel and bright flavors of strawberry, cherry, rose hip and mineral. Tightens up on the finish, where the red fruit notes mingle with chalky tannins. Best from 2029 through 2047.
95 Points Vinous
The 2021 Barbaresco Riserva Muncagota is laced with strong floral and savory notes. Brisk acids and beams of supporting tannin give the 2021 its driving, tense personality. I expect those qualities will be positives for the future, but today the Muncagota is pretty forbidding. Give this time. This is one of the most tense editions of this wine I can remember tasting.
Winemaker Notes
Of all the single-vineyard Riservas from Produttori del Barbaresco, Muncagota (formerly Moccagatta) is often the most understated. It doesn’t shout—but it lingers. Perched on the eastern side of the Barbaresco zone, the vineyard gets morning sun and cooler exposures, resulting in a style that’s more red-fruited, delicate, and linear than some of its darker, fleshier siblings.
The color is ruby red. Bouquet of red fruit with delicate floral hints. On the palate it is elegant and full-bodied with a firm tannic finish.
Food Pairings
Pairs well with fresh egg pastas, risottos, white meats, red meats, venison and cheeses.
