2017 Elvio Cogno Barolo Cascina Nuova Organic, Piedmont

Truffle, wild berry, rose and baking spice aromas come to the forefront along with a balsamic whiff of menthol. Delicious and smooth, the full-bodied palate doles out juicy black cherry, crushed raspberry, blood orange and licorice set against tightly knit, refined tannins. Drink 2024–2032.

96 points Kerin O’Keefe winenthusiast.com

Attractive dried strawberry with cherry and tar on the nose. Full-bodied with powerful tannins that are dusty and intense. Very flavorful and long. Solid as a rock. Needs at least three or four years to soften and come together.

95 points jamessuckling.com

2017 Elvio Cogno Barolo Cascina Nuova is a beautifully poised and classically styled Barolo that offers a more approachable window into the Cogno family’s philosophy while remaining deeply rooted in Nebbiolo tradition. The fruit comes from vineyards in the Ravera area of Novello, grown on limestone rich marl soils that give structure, savoury depth and aromatic clarity. While Cascina Nuova sits lower on the slope than the famed Bricco Pernice, it still benefits from the cooling influences and excellent exposures that define Novello, resulting in Barolo that balances power with elegance.

The Cogno estate is inseparable from the modern history of Ravera. Elvio Cogno was a key figure in establishing the reputation of this cru, having worked for decades at Marcarini before founding his own winery in 1990. A staunch traditionalist, he believed in long macerations, large format oak and patience in the cellar. Today the estate is run by his daughter Nadia Cogno and her husband Valter Fissore, who continue Elvio’s legacy with even greater focus on precision, organic viticulture and site expression. Cascina Nuova is certified organic and is vinified with the same care as the top cuvées, but with the intention of offering earlier approachability while still carrying true Barolo structure.

The 2017 vintage was warm and early, yet Cascina Nuova retained balance and freshness thanks to careful vineyard work. In the glass the wine shows a bright garnet colour, opening with aromas of rose petal, red cherry, raspberry, licorice and dried herbs, supported by subtle earthy and mineral notes. The palate is medium to full bodied, with refined red fruit, fine grained tannins and a long, savoury finish that reflects its limestone origins. Compared to Bricco Pernice, Cascina Nuova is more immediately charming, but it still has the backbone to age gracefully for fifteen to twenty years.

It is a natural match for braised meats, roast lamb, mushroom dishes and aged cheeses, and a wonderful introduction to traditionally made Barolo from one of Novello’s most respected estates. Elvio Cogno Barolo Cascina Nuova captures the elegance and authenticity of Ravera in a style that is both serious and inviting.