Overview
The 2019 Roagna Pajè Vecchie Viti Barbaresco represents the pinnacle expression of the Pajè vineyard, produced exclusively from Roagna’s oldest vines. “Vecchie Viti,” meaning old vines, denotes extremely low yields and extraordinary concentration, delivering a Barbaresco of profound depth, precision, and longevity. The 2019 vintage combines aromatic clarity with immense structural authority, marking this as one of the estate’s most compelling releases.
Vineyard and Winemaking
The Pajè vineyard lies within the Barbaresco commune on calcareous marl soils, celebrated for its finesse and mineral tension. The Vecchie Viti parcel is sourced from the oldest plantings, many exceeding 60 years of age, naturally producing tiny yields of intensely flavoured fruit. Roagna farms organically, fermenting with indigenous yeasts in large wooden vats and employing extended maceration to gently extract tannin and complexity. The wine is then aged for approximately five years in large neutral Slavonian oak botti, without fining or filtration, preserving absolute transparency of site and vine age.
Tasting Notes
The nose is deep and layered, revealing sour cherry, wild strawberry, dried rose, and blood orange, intertwined with notes of anise, ironstone, crushed herbs, and wet stone. The palate is dense yet refined, offering remarkable concentration of red fruit framed by powerful, chalky tannins and vibrant acidity. The finish is exceptionally long, mineral-driven, and resonant, unfolding with quiet authority and precision.
Style and Character
More intense and structured than the standard Pajè, the 2019 Pajè Vecchie Viti is a Barbaresco of gravitas and inner strength. It exemplifies Roagna’s uncompromising traditional philosophy — austere in youth, transparent in expression, and built for decades of evolution. This is a reference-point wine for collectors of great Nebbiolo.
Cellaring and Pairing
Best cellared until at least 2032, with the capacity to evolve gracefully for 30 years or more. Decant generously when young. Ideal with braised beef, game, truffle dishes, or aged hard cheeses that complement its depth, structure, and mineral intensity.
