2016 Roagna, Barbaresco, Paje Crichet

Back in 1958, Luca's grandfather decided that this parcel would be fermented separately. The family's holdings in Pajé measure two hectares over the slope of a hill, but the Crichët Pajé selection comes from a half hectare with more limestone at the top part. The fruit always shows an initially firm or clinched character that bodes well for the wine's aging potential. It was historically set apart as a "Riserva di Famiglia" and represents 20 years of hard work and a special focus by Luca's grandfather. He affectionately called it "la piccolo collina di Pajé," or "the little Pajé hill." Nebbiolo from that little plot reveals an enormous capacity to maintain brightness and freshness. The wines made here remain vibrant and alive for many, many years. Alfredo Roagna created the first commercial vintage in 1978. The Roagna 2016 Barbaresco Crichët Pajé label displays artwork that pays homage to revolution and labor—two themes reflected at the very heart of Barbaresco production. Alfredo Roagna used to say, "This wine needs to go in many directions," and by that he meant it requires additional time before embarking on its final aging trajectory. This is the main reason we see this bottle come to market so much later than its peers. Even now, tasted upon its release, it shows a complete bouquet with compact fruit flavors of redcurrant, bright lilac and crushed stone. It remains tightly assembled with elegantly chalky tannins. Its complexity is on full display today, but more cellar aging will relax and soften the finish.