Wines Barbaresco Roagna - Asili Vecchie Viti - 2017

The Roagna Barbaresco Asili Vecchie Viti 2017 is an exceptional red wine that exemplifies the nobility of Nebbiolo, its exclusive grape variety. Produced from ancient vines in the esteemed Asili cru, the wine is crafted by Roagna, a historic family-run estate recognised for its strict adherence to traditional vinification methods. The 2017 vintage is marked by a warm, dry growing season, resulting in wines of concentration and fine structure. The old vines impart an extra layer of complexity and depth, while extended maceration and ageing in large oak barrels allow for nuanced expression and remarkable finesse. In the glass, this Barbaresco offers a radiant garnet hue, unveiling perfumed aromas of rose petals, tar, dried cherries, and earthy undertones. The palate is elegant yet persistent, with refined tannins and a vibrant acidity that guarantee ageing potential.

Barbaresco hails from the Piedmont region of north-west Italy, an area steeped in winemaking history. The cool, continental climate, with significant diurnal shifts, is ideal for Nebbiolo’s slow ripening, enhancing aromatic complexity and tannic backbone. The limestone-clay soils of Asili, combined with the exposure and altitude, yield wines of both power and charm. While Barbaresco is historically overshadowed by Barolo, it is prized for its slightly earlier approachability and elegant style, and Asili is considered one of the appellation’s grandest sites.

For food pairings, this Barbaresco is well-suited to classic Piedmontese dishes such as tajarin al tartufo (egg yolk pasta with truffles) or brasato al Barbaresco (beef braised in wine), where the wine’s structure beautifully complements rich, savoury flavours. It also shines alongside roast lamb, wild mushroom risotto, or aged cheeses such as Castelmagno and Parmigiano-Reggiano. For the best tasting experience, decant for at least two hours and serve at 16-18°C to allow the wine’s complex bouquet to unfold fully and to soften the formidable yet refined tannins typical of top-tier Barbaresco.