Bruno Rocca : Rabaja 2020

Aromas and flavors of cherry and strawberry are shaded by earth and floral accents in this elegant red. Firmly structured, with grainy tannins that linger, along with licorice and wild herb notes. Just a tad chewy in the end, but this should blossom in a year or two. Best from 2026 through 2040. 526 cases made, 55 cases imported.

This opens with floral notes of roses and hints of white flowers, red fruit and cedar. The palate is very complete, well constructed and multidimensional, with fine-grained tannins and neatly packed red fruit flavors that conclude with a compact finish. While it is drinkable now, it will benefit from cellaring for a couple of years. Better from 2026.

The 2020 Barbaresco Rabajà is translucent, potent and super-expressive. All the elements of this great site come through in a Barbaresco that is so alluring. Dark macerated cherry, tobacco, spice, mint and leather are some of the many notes that build into the potent finish.

Loads of warm spice envelop the senses, like a cozy kitchen filled with the aromas of cherry pie baking in the oven. Think cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, all mingling with the sweetness of sandalwood. On the palate, this wine is a plush and juicy delight, with generous flavors of mixed berries that seem macerated and preserved. There's a hint of licorice root adding complexity, and the finish is both generous and giving, with savory herb notes that linger pleasantly.