Roagna Roagna Barolo Pira 2020 750ml

The 2019 Barolo Pira is powerful and deep, but also very closed. There's so much energy here, but readers will have to be patient, as this classically austere young Barolo clearly needs time. Hints of pine, menthol, licorice and dried herbs appear with some reluctance. I would not dream of touching a bottle anytime soon. Superb. (Antonio Galloni)

The 2020 Barolo Pira Vecchie Viti shows how magical Nebbiolo and Barolo can be. At times quite powerful and at other moments much more reserved, the 2020 is a striking, wonderfully dynamic wine. Crushed flowers, spice, herbs, coffee and pine are some of the many notes that continue to open as the 2020 blossoms in the glass. Potent tannins drive the finish, suggesting that at least a few years in bottle will be beneficial.

A distinctive white pepper aroma leads off, followed by flavors of strawberry, sour cherry, mint, menthol and iron. Despite the lightness and ethereal quality, the texture reveals viscosity and intensity. Balanced and complex, ending with terrific length. Best from 2027 through 2045. 886 cases made. (Bruce Sanderson)

Located next to Rocche di Castiglione, the Roagna family has the monopoly on the Pira vineyard in Castiglione Falletto. Luca Roagna's parents bought this plot in 1990,m and vine age varies from 35 to 60 years old. Different soils types are spread throughout the parcels. The 2019 Barolo Pira shows a beautiful mineral note with a metallic side that comes through with blazing intensity. It matches earthy sensations and pretty floral notes. This is a wine of exceptional depth and luminosity. (Monica Larner)

This red is like a laser, yet there’s also a sappiness to its texture midpalate, with cherry, cranberry, rose hip, menthol and mineral flavors. Notable for its harmony, complexity and length, with an aftertaste that just keeps coming. Best from 2029 through 2047. 856 cases made, 180 cases imported.