2016 was a year of elegance and equilibrium in both Tuscany and Piedmont. As the season closed, winemakers in both regions were holding their breath following textbook, maybe perfect vintage conditions, and on tasting embryonic wines in the spring of 2017 we knew these were going to be special.
With a plethora of ‘five star’ reviews, and many ‘100’ point wines rising from the ranks, I am delighted that Sebastian Payne MW (who was buyer for Italy at the time) in his wisdom bought early and bought big in Tuscany and Piedmont in 2016 as I was shadowing his approach.
In Tuscany, the wines combine ripe fruit, structural poise and refreshing acidity. In Piedmont, nebbiolo finds a perfect balance between perfume, power and precision. For members who enjoy following vintages over time, 2016 promises to be one of the most rewarding Italian years of the past decade – drinking superbly now especially when decanted and destined for deeper complexity for those with patience.
Tuscany
The 2016 growing season in Tuscany will long be remembered for its textbook progression: a cool, even spring, moderate summer temperatures, and a warm, dry autumn that allowed grapes to achieve full physiological ripeness without undue stress. Across the great appellations of the region – Chianti Classico, Brunello di Montalcino, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano and Bolgheri – 2016 delivered wines that combine clarity of fruit with structure, fresh acids and a poised backbone.
In Chianti Classico, sangiovese shows ripe cherry and floral perfume, framed by firm yet fine tannins. In Brunello, the wines exhibit the gravitas this appellation is known for: dense fruit, chalky structure and a capacity for long ageing, yet with an inviting mid‑palate that makes many 2016s compelling even in their youth. SuperTuscans and Bolgheri reds display generous fruit without heaviness, balanced acidity and well‑integrated oak.
While the wines are built for longevity – many top cuvées will continue to evolve for a decade or more – the best offer early rewards in their harmony and vibrancy. For members looking to enjoy now, decanting will help unveil broader aromatic range and plush texture.
Piedmont
2016 was exceptional in Piedmont, a vintage characterised by cool conditions through spring and summer tempered by warm, dry weather in September and October – ideal for nebbiolo’s slow, even ripening. The result is wines of impeccable balance: vibrant aromatics, refined structure, polished tannins and energetic acidity.
In Barolo, 2016 has quickly been recognised as one of the decade’s benchmark years. Across the major cru zones – from Monforte and Serralunga to Castiglione Falletto and Verduno – producers found harmony between physiological ripeness and freshness. The finest bottles combine red and black fruit with floral lift, mineral complexity and a structural cadence that rewards patience.
In Barbaresco, the vintage produced wines of grace and perfume: fragrant, with sleek tannins and accessible energy. Many top Barbarescos are already showing beautifully, yet there is no rush; the underlying acidity and finely tuned structure promise graceful ageing.
Across both appellations, 2016 is a vintage that will stand the test of time. Early drinking reveals alluring aromatics and supple textural elements, while cellaring will broaden complexity and deepen savoury layers.
