Viniou Reviews
Produttori del Barbaresco's Barbaresco Rabajà Riserva 2020 stands as a pinnacle expression of Nebbiolo, sourced from the esteemed Rabajà cru in the heart of Barbaresco. This vintage exemplifies the elegant balance and aromatic complexity typical of the best Barbaresco wines. Crafted exclusively from Nebbiolo grapes, the wine undergoes meticulous hand-harvesting before undergoing traditional long maceration and ageing in large Slavonian oak casks, enhancing both structure and finesse. The 2020 vintage in the Langhe area saw favourable conditions, with a combination of warm days and cool nights contributing to a harmonious ripening of grapes, yielding a wine with both ripe fruit and fine-tuned tannins.
Barbaresco, nestled in the rolling hills of the Piedmont region, is famed for its unique microclimate and ancient soils, composed mainly of calcareous clay with veins of marl and sand. These soils impart both minerality and elegance to the Nebbiolo grape, allowing for wines of remarkable longevity and complexity. The continental climate, marked by significant diurnal variations, ensures a slow maturation, key to developing Nebbiolo’s signature perfumed notes of rose, violet, and cherry, complemented by hints of tar and truffle with bottle age. Barbaresco itself is steeped in history; its transformation from a lesser-known to a revered appellation stands as a testament to producers like Produttori del Barbaresco, who have championed tradition and excellence.
For food pairings, this Rabajà Riserva is ideally suited to classic Piedmontese fare such as brasato al Barolo (braised beef in wine), tajarin pasta with butter and white truffle, or agnolotti del plin stuffed with veal. Its structure and aromatic depth also complement roasted game birds, wild mushroom risotto, or mature cheeses like Castelmagno.
To best appreciate its intricate aromas and refined palate, serve this Barbaresco slightly below room temperature, ideally between 16-18°C, and allow it to breathe in a decanter for at least an hour before serving. This will enhance its floral bouquet and soften the youthful tannins, revealing the full charm and potential of this remarkable wine.
