Barbaresco Albesani DOCG 2020

Roagna | Piedmont
Az. Agr. I Paglieri | Loc. Paglieri 9 | IT 12050 Barbaresco

Whenever one hears the name Albesani, one inevitably thinks of Bruno Giacosa and his legendary Santo Stefano. The fact that Luca Roagna has been cultivating a plot in the immediate vicinity since 2014 is one of Barbaresco's best-kept secrets – and one of its most exciting developments. The plot lies at 240 metres, at the highest point of the hill, where the area borders Santo Stefano. Calcareous soils with a good proportion of sand characterise the terroir, and fifty-year-old Nebbiolo vines are deeply rooted in this privileged soil. Albesani has held MGA certification since 2007 – belated recognition for a vineyard that connoisseurs have long counted amongst the finest in the region. The winemaking process follows the Roagna method: maceration with a submerged cap of marc for two months, followed by five years' ageing in large barrels and concrete tanks.

A delicate, rusty-glowing cherry red with a brownish rim – a transparent appearance that exudes mature elegance. The nose opens cool and delicate: iron and rust create a mineral tension, overlaid with rosehip, sour cherry and wild raspberry, nestled amongst Mediterranean herbs – rosemary, thyme, sage – and a hint of black pepper. On the palate, astonishing delicacy: silky tannins coat the mouth without ever dominating. Undergrowth and pine needles intertwine with stony coolness and lively acidity, lending the wine an irresistible ease of drinking. A Barbaresco of quiet grandeur, whose elegance stems from poise and balance – approachable even now, yet with the potential to age for decades. SUPERIORE.DE

"Full-bodied and open, this red wine evokes aromas of plums, cherries, earth and eucalyptus, accompanied by lively acidity. It has a smooth texture, with firm yet well-integrated tannins that define the long, complex finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2020 Barbaresco Albesani offers an elegant, understated expression of the Albesani. Dried cherry, crushed flowers, cedar, mint and pipe tobacco unfold with a little coaxing. This ethereal, hauntingBarbaresco has so much to offer. It will be interesting to see whether it gains body with time in the bottle. At present, it is still very delicate and aromatic." Vinous

"A restrained and elegant wine with aromas of dried violets, dried cherries, meat and minerals. Full-bodied, tense and vivid, with firm, velvety tannins, juicy and almost citrusy tension and a polished finish." James Suckling