Wines Piedmont Franco Rocca - Barbaresco Albesani - 2015

Viniou Reviews

The 2015 Barbaresco Albesani from Franco Rocca is a dry red wine renowned for its elegance and complexity, crafted from Nebbiolo grapes sourced from the esteemed Albesani vineyard. The vintage 2015 was marked by a warm and consistent growing season, allowing for optimal grape maturation and an excellent balance between ripeness and acidity. The winemaking process typically involves an extended maceration to extract tannins and colour, followed by maturation in oak barrels to enhance structure and aromatic development. The resulting wine is characterised by a deep ruby hue and an expressive bouquet of violets, dried rose petals, ripe red cherries, subtle hints of spice, and a touch of earthiness. On the palate, it is both structured and refined, showcasing supple tannins, lively acidity, and a lingering, harmonious finish.

Hailing from the Piedmont region in north-western Italy, Barbaresco is one of Italy’s most revered appellations. The climate here features warm summers and cool, foggy autumns, allowing Nebbiolo to ripen slowly and develop its signature complexity. The region’s calcareous marl soils, especially in the Albesani cru, lend finesse and a distinct minerality to the wines. Piedmont boasts a rich viticultural history, where tradition and innovation coexist to produce some of the country’s most age-worthy reds.

This Franco Rocca Barbaresco Albesani pairs beautifully with classic Northern Italian cuisine. Consider serving it alongside braised veal shank (ossobuco), wild mushroom risotto, or tajarin pasta with truffles. It also complements hard cheeses from the region, such as Castelmagno or Parmigiano-Reggiano, and is an excellent match for game dishes or roasted lamb.

For optimum enjoyment, decant the wine for one to two hours before serving to allow its aromas to unfold fully. Serve at a temperature of 16-18°C to appreciate its complexity and aromatic depth. This wine can be enjoyed now or cellared for several more years to further reveal its nuances.