2021 Barbaresco Rabaja
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Tasting notes
Always a crowd-pleaser, the Bruno Rocca 2021 Barbaresco Rabajà is especially defined by its mineral nuances that are chalky, powdery and refined. This wine wears that mineral mantel like a champion, and I can't say that many Nebbiolos pull it off as well as this. The Rabajà also shows expertly worked tannins that are glossy, polished and firm. This site sits at 250 to 300 meters in elevation on tuffaceous clay and limestone soils. The vines are 55 years old (and 6,000 bottles were made).
Critic scores
Average Score
Walter Speller, jancisrobinson.com
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2021 Barbaresco Riserva Rabajà is just as impressive as it was last year. Broad, sweeping and dramatic, the 2021 possesses remarkable textural depth and intensity. Dark-toned fruit, leather, spice, menthol, licorice, plum and mocha fill out the wine's broad, expansive frame. This is classic Rabajà. It comes from two parcels from the most south-facing site, one heavy in limestone and the other planted in 1958.
Barbaresco. Just mid ruby. Sweetly perfumed red-fruit nose with a savoury layer. Succulent yet elegant red-fruit palate with gorgeous, deep, chewy tannins. Still a little embryonic. (WS)
The 2021 Barbaresco Riserva Rabajà is fabulous. Rich and effusive, the 2021 possesses tremendous explosive energy right out of the gate. Dark fruit, leather, spice, menthol, licorice, spice and rose petal give the 2021 vivid intensity to match its mid-weight yet driving personality. A Barbaresco of striking inner perfume and mind-blowing balance, the 2021 is a flat out stunner.