Wines Barbaresco Franco Rocca - Barbaresco Albesani - 2015

Viniou Reviews

The Franco Rocca Barbaresco Albesani 2015 is a distinguished red wine from the Piemonte region, crafted exclusively from the Nebbiolo grape. The iconic Albesani cru is one of Barbaresco's most esteemed vineyard sites, renowned for yielding wines of remarkable finesse and longevity. The 2015 vintage enjoyed favourable growing conditions, with a warm, balanced summer allowing for optimal ripening and an elegant tannic structure. This Barbaresco is vinified traditionally, involving an extended maceration to extract intense aromas and flavours, then matured in large oak casks to soften the tannins and develop complexity without masking the grape's delicate floral and spicy characteristics.

Piemonte, nestled in north-western Italy and bordered by the Alps, boasts a continental climate with cold winters and hot, dry summers. This diurnal temperature variation is key to developing Nebbiolo's unique aromatic profile. The region's soils, rich in calcareous marl, impart structure and minerality to the wines. Barbaresco, alongside its sibling Barolo, is deeply rooted in the history of Italian viticulture. The wines from the Albesani vineyard are particularly admired for their perfumed bouquet, refined palate, and the capacity to age gracefully.

For food pairing, a mature Barbaresco like this finds harmony with dishes of equal depth and elegance. Traditional Piemontese cuisine makes a perfect match: think tajarin with white truffle, braised veal cheeks, or agnolotti del plin. The wine also elevates slow-cooked meats such as osso buco or lamb shanks, and partners beautifully with game birds or earthy mushroom risotto. A well-aged Parmigiano Reggiano or pecorino completes the experience.

To fully appreciate its nuanced bouquet—rose petals, dried cherries, liquorice, and subtle tar notes—serve this Barbaresco at 16-18°C, ideally decanted for an hour prior to tasting. This allows the wine to open up its layered aromas and refined texture, offering a memorable tasting experience.