The 2018 Sottimano Barbaresco Pajore is a Nebbiolo wine hailing from the Piedmont region of Italy, specifically from the Treiso sub-region in the Pajore sub-appellation. Produced by Sottimano, this red wine is sealed with a cork and has an alcohol content of 14.5%.

Multiple renowned wine reviewers have evaluated this vintage, consistently awarding it high scores. Wine Enthusiast's Kerin O’Keefe gave it a 94, describing it as a "full-bodied red" with "aromas of blue flower, ripe dark-skinned fruit and a potpourri of spice." She notes that the palate is "youthfully austere," featuring "ripe Marasca cherry, licorice and hints of espresso framed in tightly wound, close-grained tannins." O'Keefe suggests drinking it between 2026 and 2031.

Jeb Dunnuck similarly rated it 94, highlighting its "darkest profile" among the 2018s. He describes the wine as having notes of "dried cherry, tobacco, mint, and cedar" with a "savory" character marked by "blood orange, red plum skin, and turned earth." Dunnuck mentions that it has "more firm tannins" and "more modest acidity," recommending it be enjoyed from 2024 to 2035.

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate also awarded it a 94. The review by ML notes that the wine, sourced from Treiso, "shows a lot of shape and depth," supported by "generous but carefully balanced fruit." The bouquet includes "summer cherry and dried cassis, with earthy tones, camphor ash and powdered licorice," and a hint of "crushed flowers or roses." Only 6,000 bottles of this "extremely silky and elegant" wine were produced.

Vinous' Antonio Galloni gave the highest score of 95, describing the wine as "quite closed" but showing "all the translucent elegance" of the range. The wine features elements of "spice, mineral, melted road tar, rose petal, leather, and lavender," highlighting the "darker, more balsamic inflections of Nebbiolo." Galloni emphasizes that this "potent, structured Barbaresco" requires patience.

Finally, Wine Spectator's BS rated it 92, noting the mingling of "wild rosemary and sage notes with plum and cherry fruit" in this "enticing red." The wine is described as "harmonious" with a rich midpalate and a finish that includes "floral, berry and herb accents" alongside "moderate tannins." The recommended drinking window is from 2024 through 2042, with 416 cases made and 150 cases imported.

In summary, the 2018 Sottimano Barbaresco Pajore is a highly esteemed Nebbiolo with a complex profile and strong aging potential. Each reviewer acknowledges its robust character and layered flavors, making it a noteworthy addition to any wine enthusiast’s collection.