Roagna Barbaresco Pajè 2017 is a striking example of Piedmontese winemaking mastery. Made exclusively from the Nebbiolo grape, this cuvée benefits from both meticulous hand selection and traditional vinification methods at the esteemed Roagna estate. The grapes for the Pajè come from a singularly renowned plot within Barbaresco, known for its unique microclimate and soil structure. The 2017 vintage brought a classic growing season, with warm days and cool nights, resulting in a wine of notable structure and elegance. Fermentation occurs in large neutral oak, with extended maceration to fully extract Nebbiolo’s complex tannins and aromatic potential, followed by a careful élévage in oak casks for several years.
Barbaresco is one of the jewels of the Piedmont region in north-western Italy, alongside its sibling Barolo. The appellation is set in the Langhe hills, an area prized for its rolling slopes and soils rich in calcareous marl and clay. This terroir, combined with a temperate continental climate, is particularly well suited to Nebbiolo, producing wines with both power and finesse. Barbaresco itself is slightly more approachable and earlier maturing than Barolo, while retaining an impressive complexity and capacity for ageing. The Roagna family, with centuries of history in the region, is renowned for traditionalist methods, low yields, and a focus on expressing terroir.
For food pairing, Nebbiolo’s firm tannins, high acidity, and beguiling aromatics lend themselves beautifully to rich, savoury dishes. Try this Roagna Barbaresco Pajè with classic Piedmontese cuisine like tajarin al ragù, brasato al Barbaresco (beef braised in Barbaresco wine), or agnolotti del plin stuffed with veal and sage. The wine will also complement game meats, duck, or a wild mushroom risotto, and is exquisite with aged cheeses such as Castelmagno or Parmigiano-Reggiano.
Serve this Barbaresco at 16-18°C in large, tulip-shaped glasses to allow the wine to open fully. Decanting for one to two hours is recommended to allow its delicate floral, cherry, and earthy nuances to emerge. The 2017 can be enjoyed now with a suitable decant, or cellared further for greater complexity.
