2020 Roagna, "Albesani," Barbaresco DOCG - 750ML

97 Points – Kerin O’Keefe

Roagna’s 2020 Barbaresco “Albesani” comes from one of Neive’s prized crus, rendered through the estate’s traditionally minded, long-aging approach to Nebbiolo. The 2020 release shows the graceful power of Albesani’s limestone-influenced soils, combining aromatic lift, fine structure, and a deeply Piedmontese sense of restraint. Roagna’s importer notes the estate’s reputation for traditional wines built on long macerations, structure, and precise fruit purity.

Blend: 100% Nebbiolo.

Tasting Notes: Elegant and layered, with aromas of rose, violet, red cherry, raspberry, blood orange, spice, camphor, and subtle earthy tones. The palate is refined yet persistent, carrying ripe red fruit, savory herbs, star anise, mineral tension, and finely woven tannins through a long, composed finish.

Structure: Elegant, firmly built, aromatic, and age-worthy.

Drink Window: 2027–2040.

Decanting: Decant for 2–3 hours if opened young to allow the tannins and aromatics to unfold. From the early 2030s onward, a shorter decant of 60–90 minutes should be sufficient, with care taken to avoid disturbing sediment.

Roagna’s “Albesani” is a compelling bottle for collectors and Nebbiolo lovers who value nuance over excess. It offers the perfume and finesse expected of great Barbaresco, with enough structure for serious cellaring and enough beauty to make it memorable at the table with truffle dishes, roasted meats, porcini, or aged cheeses.