2014 Roagna Pajé Vecchie Viti Barbaresco DOCG 750 ml

Roagna has been producing wine since the 1800s and they boast not only some of the best crus of both Barolo and Barbaresco, they pride themselves on using vines of significant age and making wines without the use of new oak. And It is the site and experience (of both the vineyard and the winey) that shows when vintage conditions are less than perfect. 

Pajé, a name derived from the Piedmontese dialect is an historic vineyard purchased in the 1950s, where the vines are a minimum of 50 years old. The vineyard is a southwest-facing ampitheater comprised of marl and limestone, pefectly poised to grow Nebbiolo. Plus, the vineyard's proximity to the Tanaro River helps regulate temperature ensuring the best grapes every year. 

Keeping with the traditional style of all Roagna’s wines the grapes undergo long macerations and extended aging in large neutral oak. Only a few hundred cases are made annually. The wine “captures everything that makes Nebbiolo so seductive” dubbed Vinous in their 96pt review.