Wines Barbaresco Roagna - Pajè VV - 2017

Roagna's Barbaresco Pajè Vecchie Viti 2017 stands as a sublime expression of Nebbiolo, the noble grape of Piedmont. Sourced from old vines in the esteemed Pajè cru—where the vines’ average age exceeds 50 years—this wine represents the quintessence of traditional Barbaresco. 2017 brought challenges of heat and drought, but Roagna’s expertise ensured optimal ripening balanced by freshness and poise. The wine was vinified with minimal intervention, often with long macerations and aging in large, old oak casks, resulting in a wine of depth, complexity, and purity. Expect beguiling aromatics—dried rose petals, wild cherries, liquorice, earthy truffle and subtle spice—followed by a palate that combines precision, minerality, firm tannins and remarkable length.

Barbaresco hails from the rolling hills of Langhe in north-western Italy, close to the storied town of Alba. The region’s calcareous marl soils, rich in limestone and clay, are perfectly suited to Nebbiolo, imparting finesse and an aromatic lift to its wines. Langhe’s continental climate, with its cold winters and hot, sunny summers tempered by cool fogs, encourages slow ripening, essential for Nebbiolo to develop its signature perfume and structure. Barbaresco’s legacy stretches back to the 19th century, and today it is revered globally for elegance and age-worthiness, often compared to its neighbouring Barolo.

Given the wine’s structure and aromatic complexity, it shines alongside dishes that mirror its depth. Classic Piedmontese cuisine is an ideal partner—think tajarin with white truffle, braised veal, or a rich wild mushroom risotto. Game birds, roast lamb with rosemary, or mature cow’s milk cheeses such as Castelmagno or Parmigiano Reggiano also complement its character beautifully.

For optimal enjoyment, decant Roagna Barbaresco Pajè VV 2017 at least one to two hours before serving, allowing its bouquet to fully unfurl. Serve it at 16-18°C in large, tulip-shaped glasses to best appreciate its nuance and evolution in the glass. This wine promises further transformation with cellaring but is already a meditative, rewarding taste of Piedmont’s terroir.