Summary

Bruno Giacosa's Barbaresco Riserva Rabajà 2001 is a highly sought-after wine from the esteemed Rabajà cru in Piedmont, crafted from Nebbiolo grapes. Known for its exceptional quality, this vintage showcases a blend of dark fruit, herbal notes, and spices, with a remarkable full-bodied structure supported by silky tannins. The wine has been aged traditionally in large Slavonian barrels, enhancing its complexity and depth. With its notable earthy characteristics and hints of graphite and licorice, this Riserva exemplifies the elegance and craftsmanship of Giacosa, making it a standout choice for collectors. The wine promises significant aging potential.

Tasting Notes

WA97

The 2001 Barbaresco Riserva Rabaja is another wine I tasted many times before it was released. It is, in my view, one of the greatest wines Bruno Giacosa has ever made. That said, there is some variation in the 2001 that is probably attributable to different suppliers of cork. Although this bottle is not as thrilling as others have been, there is still plenty of the darkness, depth and structure that are such Rabaja signatures. Firm tannins ensure the 2001 will drink well for many years and decades to come. I often enjoy Barolo and Barbaresco on the younger side, but the 2001 Rabaja is a bottle I would prefer to continue to cellar for at least another few years. In the mid 2000s, Giacosa made several fabulous Barbarescos from a parcel he labeled as being in Rabaja, but that was later placed within Asili when the Menzioni Geografiche Aggiuntive (the approximate Italian equivalent of the French 'cru') were drawn up a few years ago. Tasted: August 2016.

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