Roagna Roagna Barbaresco Pajè 2019 750ml

Ripe with cherry, raspberry, alpine herb, mineral and anise flavors, this red is both fluid and solidly built. The tannins are fine-grained, while the vivid acidity drives its long, complex aftertaste. Offers terrific persistence and expression. Best from 2027 through 2043. 491 cases made. (Bruce Sanderson)

The 2019 Barbaresco Pajè is a step up from the first Barbarescos in this range. Its depth is apparent even from the color. Deeply pitched spice notes meld into a core of dark-toned fruit. Leather, incense, licorice and scorched earth follow, adding layers of dimension. This fabulous edition of the Pajè is notable for its textural resonance and overall presence. (Antonio Galloni)

Luca Roagna's father was born in 1953, and that year also marks the first vintage this wine was produced by Luca's grandfather Alfredo, who was deeply convinced by the potential of this vineyard and went into deep financial debt after the war in order to purchase this land. The 2019 Barbaresco Pajè is muscular and firm with dark fruit and grippy tannins. There is a chalky quality that reflects the site's limestone soils. Delivering ample heft and dimension, this is a wine of substance. (Monica Larner)

The 2018 Barbaresco Pajè is a brooding, inward wine. Mineral and savory notes dominate, while fruit is in the background. The Pajè has come together beautifully since I first tasted it a few months ago. The aromatics in particular are so expressive. Like all the 2018s here, the Pajè is a Barbaresco of understated complexity. It will be interesting to see if the nervy tannins soften a touch. (Antonio Galloni)