Barolo Pira “Vecchie Viti” DOCG 2020 · MAGNUM in OWC
Roagna | Piedmont
Az. Agr. I Paglieri | Loc. Paglieri 9 | IT 12050 Barbaresco
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Europe was on the brink of collapse in 1937, but someone planted Nebbiolo. These vines are still standing today – some on their original roots, protected by calcareous soils in which phylloxera was never able to gain a foothold decades earlier. Others were propagated using an ancient technique: a shoot from the mother plant is bent under the ground, takes root and becomes a vine in its own right. Genetically identical, but reborn. In this way, the vineyard is rejuvenated without losing its identity. One and a half hectares within the Pira monopoly position are reserved for these "veterans". Antonio Galloni called last year's 2019 vintage "one of the most poignant, beautiful wines I have ever tasted here" – 99 points for something that actually defies judgement. Because this Barolo is not about power, but about flavour and depth.
Luca Roagna says that wild mint grows between the vines. When he drives through the rows with his tractor, he is reminded of an exotic mojito. It is precisely this botanical freshness that elevates the wine – rose petal, mint and dried flowers give it a vertical lift, while strawberry, cherry and cedar add depth. On the palate: floating yet concentrated, flowing yet structured. Tannins of creamy texture, acidity of vibrant precision, a final that kaleidoscopically wanders through flavours. Only 2,000 bottles. A wine that began in 1937 and will hopefully never end ... SUPERIORE.DE
"Deep and juicy from the start, this red evokes lush flavours of cherries, strawberries, eucalyptus, tar and minerals. The mid-palate is ripe and rich, which carries through to the long, lingering aftertaste, showing a vibrant energy and presence. Excellent balance and expressiveness." Wine Spectator
"The 2020 Barolo Pira Vecchie Viti shows how magical Nebbiolo and Barolo can be. At times quite powerful and at other moments much more reserved, the 2020 is a striking, wonderfully dynamic wine. Crushed flowers, spice, herbs, coffee and pine are some of the many notes that continue to open as the 2020 blossoms in the glass. Potent tannins drive the finish, suggesting that at least a few years in bottle will be beneficial." Vinous
