Sartirano Figli Rabaja Barbaresco DOCG 2011

Rabajà – Barbaresco’s famed cru (vineyard area) – elicits serious excitement among Italian wine fans. We were lucky enough to scoop up this exclusive taste from a historic family (and we cannot wait for you to try it).

The Sartiranos have been a byword for premium Piedmont wine since 1871. Today, with fourth-generation Paolo Sartirano at the helm, the family has a devoted local following. Paolo’s Rabajà release is one very good reason why …

One of the finest Barbarescos we’ve come across in a while, it’s made with top-notch Nebbiolo grapes from the prestigious Rabajà vineyard. This special spot is perched on the highest hill in Barbaresco and, thanks to its ideal, southwest-facing slope, the vines bask in sunlight all day – giving these late-ripening grapes extra richness. A boost from Mother Nature – 2011 was a very good year in Barbaresco – has imparted even more flavor intensity.

Back in the winery, Paolo aged the wine in oak barrels for nine months (plus gave it another 17 in the bottle before releasing). This is serious stuff, and while it’s drinking beautifully now, it will reward careful cellaring to 2030.

Look for heady aromas of violets, cedar, tobacco leaf, and black plum, opening to a rich, extremely dense palate of spicy red and black fruits. If time permits, we recommend decanting 30-60 minutes before serving – will pair beautifully with black truffle ravioli, game, or roasted beef.

Limited cased imported – you’ll want to secure yours before they’re gone.