Wines Unspecified Roagna - Asili Vecchie Viti - 2017

Roagna’s Cuvée Asili Vecchie Viti 2017 is a particularly refined expression of Piedmontese red, crafted from old vines (Vecchie Viti) in the famed Asili cru, most commonly associated with Barbaresco. While the exact blend is not specified, this cuvée is predominantly Nebbiolo, the noble grape behind the finest wines of the region. The 2017 vintage in Piedmont was marked by a warm growing season with episodes of drought, yielding fruit of excellent concentration yet with the elegance for which the Asili vineyard is revered. Roagna’s winemaking is traditional: extended maceration on the skins, wild yeast fermentation, and aging in large, neutral oak casks. This time-honoured approach faithfully translates the terroir’s nuances into the glass.

The Piedmont region, nestled in north-western Italy, is renowned for its fog-shrouded hills and complex soils—combinations of calcareous marl and clay—that lend Nebbiolo its haunting perfume and grip. Asili, within the Barbaresco area, is particularly prized for its balance between structure and aromatic finesse, with old vines further deepening the wine’s layers. Piedmont’s climate is continental but tempered by the Alps, ensuring a long, slow ripening of the grapes, vital for developing Nebbiolo’s signature tannins and array of aromas ranging from red fruit to rose petal and earthy underscores.

To pair with this wine, consider dishes that speak to Piedmont’s gastronomic wealth. Traditional tajarin (egg-rich noodles) with white truffle, braised veal with polenta, or mushroom risotto would draw out the aromatic and textural complexity. Robust British dishes like roast lamb or matured game, served with root vegetables, will also complement its structure and depth. Aged cheeses, especially local Toma or a well-aged cheddar, offer a splendid final act.

Decant this wine for at least an hour to let its bouquet unfold. Serve slightly cool, ideally at 16-18°C, to encourage the floral and savoury notes to intermingle. Asili’s rare pedigree and the concentration of the 2017 vintage promise a noble and contemplative drinking experience—worthy of a special occasion and patient appreciation.