Roagna Barbaresco Crichët Pajè 2016

100 points Monica Larner (Wine Advocate): "Back in 1958, Luca's grandfather decided that this parcel would be fermented separately. The family's holdings in Pajé measure two hectares over the slope of a hill, but the Crichët Pajé selection comes from a half hectare with more limestone at the top part. The fruit always shows an initially firm or clinched character that bodes well for the wine's aging potential. It was historically set apart as a "Riserva di Famiglia" and represents 20 years of hard work and a special focus by Luca's grandfather. He affectionately called it "la piccolo collina di Pajé," or "the little Pajé hill." Nebbiolo from that little plot reveals an enormous capacity to maintain brightness and freshness. The wines made here remain vibrant and alive for many, many years. Alfredo Roagna created the first commercial vintage in 1978. The Roagna 2016 Barbaresco Crichët Pajé label displays artwork that pays homage to revolution and labor—two themes reflected at the very heart of Barbaresco production. Alfredo Roagna used to say, "This wine needs to go in many directions," and by that he meant it requires additional time before embarking on its final aging trajectory. This is the main reason we see this bottle come to market so much later than its peers. Even now, tasted upon its release, it shows a complete bouquet with compact fruit flavors of redcurrant, bright lilac and crushed stone. It remains tightly assembled with elegantly chalky tannins. Its complexity is on full display today, but more cellar aging will relax and soften the finish. Drink: 2027-2060. (Jan 2025)"

99 points Wine Spectator: "The aromas are subdued, yet the flavors come alive, with steeped plum, cherry, coffee, tar, licorice and sweet spice notes. This washes across the palate like cashmere, leaving a refreshing aftertaste that lasts for minutes. Impressive. Like Escenzia to Tokaji, this is stripped down to the essence of the grape and its soil and geology. Drink now through 2045. 140 cases made. (Mar 2025)"

98+ points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "The 2016 Barbaresco Crichët Pajé is hauntingly beautiful. Light on its feet and deceptive in its medium-bodied feel, the 2016 is a mere infant. Scents of macerated red cherry, blood orange, leather, sweet spice and pipe tobacco open gradually. The 2016 is a stunning, riveting Barbaresco in every way, not to mention a highlight in a range full of compelling wines. All it needs is time in bottle to shed some tannin. The long, dynamic finish is breathtaking. Drink: 2024-2046. (Oct 2024)"

98 points Kerin O'Keefe: "Made with old vines that average 50-80 years old, the 2016 Crichët Pajè is an aristocratic Barbaresco with class and pedigree. Featuring layers of crunchy red cherry, blood orange, baking spice and licorice flavors underscored by a saline minerality, it’s savory, racy and austere, with firm, fine-grained tannins and racy acidity. A radiant red loaded with finesse, it needs time to fully develop. Drink: 2031–2056. (Oct 2024)"