GIUSEPPE CORTESE Barbaresco Rabaja Riserva 2016

The Giuseppe Cortese winery is located on Strada Rabajà, in Barbaresco, a small village situated in the heart of the Langhe, perched atop a gentle hill at the foot of which flows the Tanaro river. The Cortese family, which has cultivated these vineyards for three generations, owns eight hectares of vineyard in the heart of Rabajà, one of the most prestigious crus for Barbaresco production, thanks to its favorable south-west exposure, 40-year-old vines and perfect drainage.

The Cortese winery has always demonstrated great love and a strong bond with its land, to which it dedicates attentive care and respect. In its vineyards, the Cortese winery does not use chemical herbicides or any invasive treatments. In recent times, Pier Carlo and Tiziana, Giuseppe’s children, have renovated the old cellar and now in the spacious, completely underground rooms, the wine rests in large Slavonian or French oak casks and in barriques (30% new), finding the humidity and temperature suitable for optimal aging, which gives it those distinctive characteristics typical of wines of great complexity and elegance.

Over time, the Giuseppe Cortese brand has established itself among enthusiasts for the genuine and vibrant character of a classic Barbaresco, as tradition dictates. Alongside the production of Barbaresco Rabajà, also offered in a Riserva version, other wines typical of the territory have been added: brilliant and elegant interpretations, the fruit of a unique love for their land.

BARBARESCO Rabaja Riserva 2016

GIUSEPPE CORTESE Barbaresco Rabaja Riserva 2016. The 2016 Barbaresco DOCG “Rabajà” Riserva by Giuseppe Cortese is a wine of great prestige, considered one of the pinnacles of the appellation. Its characteristics, production process, and critical acclaim confirm its status as a “standout” among the great Piedmontese reds.

Giuseppe Cortese’s Barbaresco Riserva is born from a rigorous selection of the finest Nebbiolo grapes from historic vineyards over 70 years old in the Rabajà Cru, with south-southwest exposure. This wine is produced only in vintages considered exceptional. The winemaking process follows tradition:

The harvest.

The harvest is manual. Fermentation takes place in concrete or steel tanks for approximately 30-35 days.
Aging is long and meticulous: 40 months in large Slavonian oak casks followed by a minimum of 3 years in bottle before release. This approach allows the wine to develop complexity and structure while maintaining the integrity of the fruit.

Organoleptic Description

This Barbaresco Riserva presents an intense garnet red color. On the nose, the bouquet is complex and continuously evolving, with notes of cherry, morello cherry, plum, and tertiary hints of spices, leather, undergrowth and tobacco.

Floral nuances can also be perceived, such as wilted rose petals. On the palate, it is majestic and profound, with an imposing body, fine and silky tannins and remarkable freshness. The harmony between the fruit and tannic structure makes the sip balanced, with a long and persistent finish that leaves a mineral and mentholated aftertaste.

Critical acclaim

The 2016 vintage of Barbaresco “Rabajà” Riserva has been acclaimed by international wine critics for its elegance, power, and longevity. It has received exceptionally high scores, highlighting its significant aging potential.

• Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate: 95/100
• James Suckling: 94/100
• Wine Spectator: 94/100
• Guida Vini Vitae (AIS): Quattro Viti (highest recognition)
• Gambero Rosso: 3 Bicchieri (highest recognition)

Critics agree in defining 2016 as a collectible vintage, a wine that, while already enjoyable, will give its best after many years of cellaring. Reviews highlight its depth, aromatic complexity and ability to express the Rabajà terroir.