Vietti Barbaresco Rabaja Riserva 2020

The 2020 Barbaresco Riserva Rabajà is magnificent. A wine of crystalline precision and nuance, the 2020 bristles with energy. Slate, crushed rocks, orange peel, mint, cinnamon and dried flowers all race across the palate. This intensely saline, taut Barbaresco needs a number of years in bottle to be at its best, even if it is pretty alluring right now.

Rose hip, pomegranate, strawberry, hay and eucalyptus aromas and flavors mark this linear, almost tart red. Offset by firm tannins, while the terrific finish leaves layers of flavor and a mouthwatering impression. Approachable now with food but better in a few years. Best from 2027 through 2043.

This plot was purchased in 2019, and this is therefore the second vintage made. The Vietti 2020 Barbaresco Riserva Rabajà is spicy, juicy and accessible with some sweetness on the tannins. The wine sports Mediterranean warmth from within with black cherry, spice and grilled rosemary. There is a saline-mineral touch as well that adds elegance, but all said in done, this wine is more immediate in delivery. The 2020 vintage is bookended by two superior vintages, the 2019 and 2021. Only 2,152 bottles were made.