The 2018 Manzone Giovanni Barolo Castelletto is a noteworthy wine originating from the Barolo region in Piedmont, Italy. Produced by Giovanni Manzone, this wine is crafted from the Nebbiolo varietal and features a robust 14.5% alcohol content. The Castelletto sub-appellation in Monforte is known for producing full-bodied wines, and this Barolo is no exception.

The wine has received favorable reviews from several prominent wine critics. Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate awarded it a score of 92, describing it as “a robust expression of Nebbiolo with ample texture, dark fruit and plenty of oak toast and spice.” The reviewer notes that the wine could benefit from some aging to shed its “extra fruit weight and baby fat,” which will allow for more “pinpoint focus and linearity.”

Vinous gave the 2018 Barolo Castelletto a more impressive score of 95. The review highlights the wine’s “vertical intensity” and rich character, stating that it “exudes vertical intensity, not to mention tons of character, right out of the gate.” The wine’s complex profile includes aromas and flavors of “sweet red/purplish fruit, rose petal, dried herbs, lavender, spice and orange zest.” The review also praises the wine’s “bright Castelletto acids and vibrant tannins,” which contribute to its “heady, explosive” quality.

James Suckling’s review, which scored the wine at 93, mentions the presence of “racy red berries, blue fruit, dark earth and blue flowers on the nose with a tarry undertone.” He describes the wine as “broad, yet fluid and structured,” with “tight, chalky tannins driving the fruit to a sappy, mouthwatering finish.” Suckling suggests that the wine is versatile, recommending it for immediate consumption or further aging.

In summary, the 2018 Manzone Giovanni Barolo Castelletto is a robust, full-bodied Nebbiolo with excellent aging potential. It has garnered high praise for its complex flavor profile and structure, making it a commendable choice for both current enjoyment and cellaring.