Bruno Rocca : Barbaresco Riserva Rabajà 2019

This red starts out with plum, cherry, earth, graphite and underbrush flavors before tightening up with a laser beam of dense tannins. The graphite element lingers alongside tar and spice flavors on the lengthy finish. Combines power and grace. Best from 2027 through 2045. 93 cases made, 8 cases imported.

An intense and layered Barbaresco with aromas of dried flowers, red currants and pomegranates, then touches of mint, licorice and restrained blood oranges. Full-bodied with weight and concentration, powerful yet balanced due to velvety tannins despite the dusty texture and the biting finish, with juicy acidity and a long, polished finish. Drinkable now, but best from 2029.

The 2019 Barbaresco Riserva Rabajà is another captivating wine in this range from the Rocca family. Bright and vibrant, the 2019 possesses terrific energy from start to finish. This tense, nervy Riserva is going to need a few years to be at its finest. Then again, it is Rabajà. Like the best Rabajàs, the 2019 needs time to come together. Bright red fruit, cedar, tobacco, spice and vibrant saline notes race across the palate and onto the nervy, crystalline finish. What a beautiful wine this is.