Langhe Rosso Roagna 2017

Roagna's Langhe Rosso is a pure Nebbiolo, which can be considered a miniature Barolo by virtue of its class and complexity. A fusion, more precisely, between grapes from a historic vineyard in Barbaresco, such as Pajè, and those harvested in a commune of a great tradition for Barolo, namely Castiglione Falletto. Luca Roagna, one of Langa's true stars, interprets all his wines in an austere and traditional way, preferring wines that unfold with time rather than reveal themselves immediately. Great depth, also helped by a totally respectful approach to the vineyard and grapes, inherent in the culture of a family that has made and still makes Italian wine history.

Langhe Rosso wine comes from pure Nebbiolo grapes from the youngest vines, which are about 20-25 years old. The vineyards used for the composition of this red are Pajè, located in Barbaresco, and Pira in Castiglione Falletto, both known for the quality of the wines produced here, and both rest on predominantly marly soils. Manual harvesting, as per tradition, followed by double sorting of the qualitatively healthiest grapes. This is followed by fermentation, which takes place exclusively in wooden vats and through the intervention of indigenous yeasts, lasting about 10 days, while maceration on the skins lasts 2 months. Ageing takes place in large casks for 5 years.

Roagna Langhe Rosso drops into the glass with a ruby colour that veers toward garnet. It declares its origin from the first olfaction, Langarola, to the core, with notes of liquorice, dog rose and cherry, while initially remaining compressed in its rigorous austerity and needing time to relax. One then moves on to tasting to try to capture the essence of the wine, and here it reveals itself in all its power and class. It irrigates the palate, pushing into every area of it, being endowed with wonderful freshness and savoriness. The tannin is majestic but well-sculpted, while the persistence is long and refined. A great bottle to enjoying even now in its vibrant youth or to await further in the cellar.