Bruno Rocca : Rabajà 2019

This features tangy cherry and raspberry flavors up front, giving way to eucalyptus, menthol and stony mineral accents as it evolves on the palate. Succulent yet elegant, with a dusting of tannins on the precision finish. Best from 2026 through 2043. 511 cases made, 54 cases imported.

Subtle aromas of red berries, tobacco and fine tea leaves with nutmeg and pink peppercorns. Polished and refined on the palate with a medium body and massive, velvety yet weightless tannins. Dry, lengthy finish with hints of crushed stones. Drink from 2026.

The 2019 Barbaresco Rabajà comes across as quite delicate and shy. I had hoped the 2019 would open more over the last year, but that has not happened, at least not yet. Even so, there is good energy and plenty of drive. The 2019 is marked by a distinctly red-toned fruit profile. A whole range of floral, savory and citrus accents add complexity through to the finish. This fruit came in on October 16, late by today's standards.

Combines nutty notes from the wood with plenty of fruit and vitality, shifting back and forth between modernity and classicism and promising tension in its future development, showing a meaty, compact core and good depth paired with some finesse on robust tannins. A classic!

The 2019 Bruno Rocca Barbaresco Rabajà opens with fresh earth, strawberry and truffle notes, and a hint of vanilla ice cream from the oak. The palate is much more savory, salty and sapid on the finish, yet everything is beautifully knit together. There is a lovely, graceful elegance to these wines — with their superfine tannins they flow across the palate with such ease. Keep for 3 years and drink for 20-plus.