Barolo Pira DOCG 2020 · MAGNUM

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

Centuries ago, a private road led down from the Castello of the noble Falletti family to this vineyard. Today, it is no longer a road that ends here, but a path through jungle-like thicket – biodiversity, as Luca Roagna understands it. When the family acquired these seven hectares in Castiglione Falletto in 1989, a long-cherished dream came true: a Barolo vineyard on a par with the legendary Pajè estates in Barbaresco. More than that: a monopoly. The vineyard lies on the south-eastern slope below the Rocche di Castiglione, sheltered by the rock face above and four hectares of woodland with a stream from the Bussia di Monforte below. The soils tell the oldest story of Barolo – marine sediments from the Helvetic Period, the geological formation shared only by Castiglione Falletto, Serralunga and Monforte. Six micro-parcels are distinguished by alternating layers of white limestone, grey and blue marl, interspersed with iron. The oldest Nebbiolo vines date back to 1937.

A radiant cherry red with a subtle rusty sheen heralds a Barolo that is darker in tone than the Barbaresco, yet stylistically fits seamlessly into the family. Juniper, allspice and black pepper open the way, followed by cool sweet cherry and morello cherry. Blood, iron and a hint of smoke lend a metallic, earthy depth, whilst light tobacco and bay leaf add spicy notes. On the palate, that athletic tension which characterises Pira: broad, fine-grained tannins, muscular yet polished, underpinned by stony juiciness. Power without heaviness, substance without opulence. The finish offers bacon, wet stone and a vibrant length. A Barolo that packs a punch without ever losing its elegance. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bearing the words Unico Proprietario on the front label to denote the family's monopole ownership of the Pira vineyard, the Roagna 2020 Barolo Pira comes from plots purchased in 1990, with vine age ranging from 35 to 60 years. The wine opens to delicate aromas of sweet cherry, dried blueberry and lavender with a subtle suggestion of red mint that carries through the wine's slow evolution in the glass. The palate is finely etched, lean and elegant with remarkable composure and precision. Like many of the Roagna 2020s, this wine favors transparency over sheer concentration." Wine Advocate

"The Barolo Pira 2020 is a powerful, tightly structured young Barolo. Dried herbs, incense, liquorice, tobacco and crushed autumn leaves add layers of nuance. It opens up with a little coaxing, suggesting that a few years in the bottle or a good amount of air will suffice. The tannins are persistent, yet well-rounded." Vinous

"This red wine is like a laser, yet juicy on the mid-palate, with flavours of cherries, cranberries, rosehips, menthol and minerals. It stands out for its harmony, complexity and length, with a finish that simply won't end." Wine Spectator

"A reserved and austere Barolo with aromas of embers, graphite, dried cherries, redcurrants, potpourri and earthy minerality. Full-bodied, with firm, dense and velvety tannins, and a spicy, refreshing, lively yet precise finish." James Suckling