Wines Barbaresco Roagna - Montefico Vecchie Vigne - 2009

The Roagna Barbaresco DOC “Cuvée Montefico Vecchie Vigne” 2009 is a striking example of the noble Nebbiolo grape at its finest. Sourced from the esteemed Montefico cru, this cuvée is vinified from old vines, which typically yield fewer but more concentrated grapes, resulting in a wine of immense depth and complexity. The 2009 vintage benefitted from a warm growing season, producing generous, ripe fruit balanced by Nebbiolo’s characteristic tannins and acidity. Roagna, renowned for its traditional approach, employs extended maceration and long ageing in large oak botti, allowing the terroir’s nuances to fully express themselves in the glass. Expect enticing aromas of dried rose petals, truffle, cherry, and balsamic notes, accompanied by a palate that is elegant, yet structured, with lingering minerality and a finish marked by fine-grained tannins.

The Barbaresco region lies in the heart of Piedmont, northwest Italy, not far from Alba. The climate boasts a continental influence, with cold winters and warm, dry summers—ideal conditions for Nebbiolo to reach optimum ripeness while retaining lively acidity. Montefico itself is celebrated for its calcareous marl soils, imparting finesse and aromatics, while the vineyard’s southeast exposure ensures steady sunlight and balanced ripening. Barbaresco, alongside its neighbour Barolo, has a storied history as the birthplace of some of Italy’s greatest red wines, prized for their balance, longevity, and their capacity to reflect their terroir.

This Barbaresco pairs beautifully with classic Piedmontese dishes. Slow-braised veal in Barolo sauce, wild mushroom risotto, or a rich tajarin pasta with white truffle will highlight the wine’s aromatic and savoury profile. Game birds, roast lamb, and mature cheeses such as Castelmagno or Pecorino further accentuate its complexity. For an authentic match, try brasato al Barbaresco—beef braised slowly in Nebbiolo.

To fully appreciate this Roagna Barbaresco, decant at least an hour before serving to soften the tannins and release its bouquet. Serve at 17-18°C in large Burgundy-style glasses. This vintage has impressive aging potential, but is showing remarkable harmony and tertiary development now, making it superb for both current pleasure and further cellaring.