Barolo Pira “Vecchie Viti” DOCG 2020

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

1937. Europe was on the brink of disaster, yet someone planted Nebbiolo. These vines still stand today – some on their original roots, protected by calcareous soils in which the phylloxera had never been able to take hold decades earlier. Others were propagated using an ancient technique: a shoot from the mother plant is bent underground, takes root and becomes a vine in its own right. Genetically identical, yet 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 described the 2019 vintage as "one of the most moving, beautiful wines I have ever tasted here" – 99 points for something that really defies rating. For this Barolo is not about power, but about aroma and depth.

Luca Roagna explains that wild mint grows amongst the vines. When he drives his tractor through the rows, it reminds him of an exotic mojito. It is precisely this botanical freshness that elevates the wine – rose petal, mint and dried flowers give it vertical lift, whilst strawberry, cherry and cedarwood contribute depth. On the palate: ethereal yet concentrated, fluid yet structured. Tannins with a creamy texture, acidity of vibrant precision, a final that shifts kaleidoscopically through a range of flavours. Just 2,000 bottles. A wine that began in 1937 and will, hopefully, never end ... SUPERIORE.DE

"The Roagna 2020 Barolo Pira Vecchie Viti opens to aromas of ripe blackberry with earthy notes and iron ore that lend greater richness and dimension. The wine carries a little more volume than the standard Pira, although only by a small margin, remaining remarkably smooth and silky with open-knit tannins. Over the following days, the bouquet gains further intensity, revealing layers of savory herbs, exotic spice and increasingly pronounced tarry notes. Despite its growing aromatic complexity, the palate remains exceptionally refined and finely etched." Wine Advocate

"Deep and rich from the very first sip, this red wine evokes rich aromas of cherries, strawberries, eucalyptus, tar and minerals. On the palate, it is ripe and rich, a character that carries through to the long, lingering finish, displaying a vibrant energy and presence. Excellent balance and expressiveness." Wine Spectator

"The 2020 Barolo Pira Vecchie Viti demonstrates just how magical Nebbiolo and Barolo can be. At times very powerful and at others much more restrained, the 2020 is a distinctive, wonderfully dynamic wine. Crushed flowers, spices, herbs, coffee and pine are just some of the many notes that unfold in the glass as the 2020 vintage reaches its peak. Robust tannins drive the finish, suggesting that at least a few years in the bottle will be beneficial." Vinous

"A full-bodied and elegant wine with aromas of watermelon, wild strawberries, liquorice, lemon leaves and quinine. Full-bodied, robust and velvety, with dense yet well-integrated tannins, refreshing acidity and a spicy finish. A firm yet fresh and elegant finish. A very classic Barolo in the traditional style." James Suckling