The 2018 Sottimano Barbaresco Basarin is a Nebbiolo-based red wine from the Piedmont region of Italy, specifically the Barbaresco sub-region. This vintage is noted for its structured complexity and elegance, making it a notable entry from the renowned Sottimano winery.

Jeb Dunnuck awarded this wine a score of 93, highlighting its spiced aromatics and balanced palate. "The 2018 Barbaresco Basarin has spiced aromatics of tobacco, confected cherry, and anise," Dunnuck notes. He adds that the wine features "tangy cranberry, dried violets, and clove spice," complemented by fine tannins on the finish. He suggests an optimal drinking window from 2022 to 2036.

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate gave an outstanding review with a score of 95. Reviewer ML described the wine as showing "tart cherry fruit and plum backed by lovely layers of crushed mineral, iron ore, spice and crushed flowers." ML praised the wine for its power and elegance, emphasizing that achieving such a balance is a significant accomplishment for any winemaker. The production of this vintage is limited to 5,500 bottles.

Vinous, through Antonio Galloni, rated the wine at 94, commending its elegance and class. Galloni remarked, "Dark red cherry, pomegranate, flowers and licorice notes are all nicely lifted," and described the wine as "an elegant, supple wine" with striking purity of fruit. He noted that the Basarin will drink well with minimal cellaring.

Wine & Spirits also provided a stellar review, scoring it 95. They noted that the wine's vines are located on a south/southwest-facing slope, contributing to its firmly structured nature. "The wine seems to gain energy on the long and balanced finish, indicating good cellaring potential," they observed.

Wine Enthusiast's Kerin O’Keefe offered a detailed 95-point review, highlighting a range of aromas from balsamic camphor to earthy forest floor. O'Keefe described the palate as delivering "ripe Morello cherry, mocha, licorice and an earthy note of truffle framed in firm, fine-grained tannins," with fresh acidity ensuring balance. The recommended drinking period is from 2026 to 2038.

Wine Spectator awarded the wine a score of 92, noting flavors of "steeped plum, cherry, eucalyptus, tar and mineral," backed by beefy tannins. They described the wine as muscular yet balanced, with a drinking window from 2025 to 2043.

Overall, the 2018 Sottimano Barbaresco Basarin is a well-regarded wine celebrated for its complexity, balance, and aging potential.