2015 Giuseppe Cortese Barbaresco Rabaja DOCG 1.5L Magnum

About the Winery

This wine is made entirely from Nebbiolo grapes grown in Barbaresco's prestigious Rabajà vineyard, located in the Langhe hills just to the south of Cortese’s winery. Founded in 1971 and producing only 4,000 cases of wine per year, this is a quality minded producer with access to some of the finest estate and nearby grapes in the region.

Extending as far as the Trifolera hill, the Rabajà vineyard stretches over the crest of the hill which extends from Asili to Trifolera. Contrary to what it looks like from a distance, the Rabajà hill is not homogeneous and can be divided into two areas. The first, bordering on Asili, includes the well-positioned amphitheater that dominates the Martinenga, and is mostly exposed to south-west. The second area has a more linear appearance and is exposed to south, although there are some variations due to the hill’s undulating ground. In both cases, the wine’s style is fuller in body and firmer as compared with Asili and Martinenga.

Aging: 22 months in Slavonian oak

Reviews

This opens with aromas of ripe berry, crushed herb, scorched soil and dark culinary spice. Mirroring the nose, the firm full-bodied palate evokes juicy Marasca cherry, black raspberry, star anise and clove. Taut, tightly knit and noble tannins provide the framework. ~95WE

Wow. What a nose of pure blueberries, rose petals, lavender, crushed minerals, elderflower and so much vivid orange and candied citrus peel. Full body, electric acidity, firm and wonderfully polished tannins and a long, mineral finish. ~95JS