2022 Solea
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Tasting notes
This is a curious blend of 75% Chardonnay and 25% Nebbiolo (vinified as a white wine). The 2022 Langhe Solea was imagined by Luca Roagna's father in the 1970s. The family wanted to introduce a white wine and in fact experimented with sparkling Nebbiolo before ultimately settling on this combination of grapes. Nebbiolo adds the acidity and some of the crunch, whereas the Chardonnay adds the texture. The must is oxidized, almost brown, and requires one night to settle. The wine ferments naturally and spends two years in one oak cask on the lees with no movement. The idea is to create a reductive environment. It shows generous orchard fruit, peach and a sweet almond flavor.
Critic scores
Average Score
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Monica Larner, Wine Advocate
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The 2022 Solea is a unique blend of 80% Chardonnay and 20% Nebbiolo. Orchard fruit, white flowers, lemon peel and white pepper are all nicely articulated. Bright and vibrant, with mid-weight structure, Solea is also incredibly distinctive. Drink it over the next few years.
About the producer
Roagna is one of Italy’s finest estates, producing top, single-vineyard Nebbiolos in Barbaresco and Barolo. The estate’s Crichët Pajé Barbaresco is one of the rarest fine wine cuvées in Piedmont with fewer than 2,000 bottles produced each year.