VINTAGE 2019

Vinous – 96
The 2019 Barbaresco Asili Vecchie Viti is terrific, but it will also need time to be at its finest. It offers a captivating mix of Asili’s inner perfume and the youthful austerity that is so typical of the year. Kirsch, cinnamon, sweet spice, mint, cedar and pipe tobacco open with some coaxing. Patience will be absolutely critical here. What a gorgeous wine this is.

Wine Advocate – 98
This is an incredibly elegant expression of Nebbiolo derived from a 0.22-hectare plot that was purchased in 1961. There is a crazy story behind the acquisition involving Luca’s grandfather and the previous owner who apparently was especially unlucky at cards. The Roagna 2019 Barbaresco Asili Vecchie Viti is especially polished and fine with an almost glossy texture. This lucky vineyard is covered with a unique permaculture, including wild grasses. Luca Roagna does not till the land and he leaves that green regenerative cover crop untouched. The wine is lean and light in appearance, but again in typical Roagna fashion, the delicate look of the wine comes in contrast to the complexity, depth and power on offer.

Wine Spectator – 98
Lithe and elegant, this red is also spicy, its white pepper aligning with the vibrant backbone of acidity to define flavors of cherry, strawberry, currant, rose hip and mint. As this builds to the finish, a mineral element emerges, along with dense, refined tannins. Best from 2028 through 2047. 100 cases made.