Barbaresco “Pajoré" DOCG 2023

Az. Agr. Sottimano | Piedmont
Az. Agr. Sottimano s.s.a. | Loc. Cottà 21 | IT 12052 Neive

29562423 · 0,75 l · 110,67 €/l · Price (DE) incl. VAT, excl. Shipping< 24 units available

Treiso is not Neive. Once you've grasped that, you begin to see the Barbaresco appellation in a different light. Neive offers power, body and polyphenols. Treiso – the southernmost of the three Barbaresco municipalities, situated at a higher altitude, cooler, with more compact, limestone-rich soils – imparts rigour, minerality and a longevity that some other sites lack. The MGA Pajoré is Treiso's voice in the Sottimano collection: the most traditional, the most persistent and, of the five crus, the one that demands the most patience. Old vines on calcareous-clay soils, steep and well-exposed. Organic cultivation from the outset. Fermentation with natural yeasts, extended maceration, natural malolactic fermentation. Aged for 18 to 22 months in François-Frères barriques, half on the lees, with a minimal proportion of new oak. No filtration. No fining. A further year in the bottle. The same winemaking method as always – and, as so often, proof that terroir matters more than technique.

A clear ruby red with garnet hues. On the nose, earthy notes, crushed stone, ripe red fruit, a hint of pepper, herbs and a dark sweetness in the background. On the palate, it is slender and taut, underpinned by a racy acidity, with precise fruit and tannins that leave a firm yet delicate impression on the palate. A long, mineral finish. Pajoré – austerity as the highest form of elegance. SUPERIORE.DE

"A fascinating, rather classic bouquet of dried and fresh cherries, liquorice and watermelon, with a depth of strawberries and a hint of cinnamon. On the palate, it is medium-bodied and refined, with dusty yet ripe tannins and crisp acidity. The finish is slightly leaner, but equally delicious." James Suckling

"The Sottimano vineyards are situated on a steep, steep slope with calcareous soil and extend right up to the summit of Pajorè – a cool site that typically produces austere wines. Indeed, the 2023 vintage was very closed when I tasted it, revealing notes of cloves and mocha only reluctantly. On the palate, it is slender yet precisely defined, with light aromas of red cherries and a character that is more mineral than anything else. The acidity is pleasant on the palate, and the firm, vertical tannins never lose their grip. This wine is bursting with energy, but will need some more time in the bottle before it can fulfil its true potential." Decanter

"With fruit from Treiso, the Barbaresco Pajoré captures the bright, red-fruited character of this celebrated MGA, with lively aromas of cherry that bring lift and energy to the bouquet. Delicate notes of spice, crushed stone and blue flower unfold in the background, adding nuance without distracting from the purity of fruit. The palate is vibrant and finely focused, carrying that sense of freshness through to a long, polished finish." Wine Advocate

"Freshly picked raspberries and wild strawberries share the stage with garden mint and sage, whilst cardamom and star anise create layers that continue to unfold with every sip. On the palate, you can taste what happens when everything comes together perfectly: flawless fruit and polished tannins. This is the sort of wine that makes you understand why people fall in love with Barbaresco: precision without harshness, power without heaviness, depth without darkness. Pure class in the glass." Wine Enthusiast

"The Barbaresco Pajorè 2023 has developed very well since I tasted it last year. Dark, balsamic notes immediately herald a powerful, virile Barbaresco. harvestshould not rush into anything, as the 2023 vintage will need a few more years to fully develop. Pickled black cherry, cloves, incense, burnt earth and espresso lend the wine a sense of weight that unfolds further in the glass. It has a wonderful density and a pedigree to be proud of. Pajorè was the last Nebbiolo to be harvested in 2023." Vinous