2022 Albino Rocca Barbaresco Cottà, Piedmont

The 2022 Barbaresco Cottá is explosive, deep and heady. It shows a bit more concentration and depth relative to the other wines in the range, along with the textural volume that is typical of this site. Dark red cherry, plum, lavender and rose petal are beautifully resonant in the glass. This is all class, and easily one of the wines of the year.

96 points Antonio Galloni vinous.com

An elegant and restrained wine with aromas of rhubarb, earth, strawberries and sweet spices. Medium-bodied on the palate, showing silky tannins and a dusty finish that’s ripe and fresh. Good floral and citrus aftertaste.

94 points Aldo Fiordelli jamessuckling.com

From the historic cru of Cottà in Barbaresco, Albino Rocca crafts Nebbiolo that combines aromatic grace with layered depth, reflecting both the pedigree of the site and the family’s long standing connection to these hills. The Rocca estate dates back to the late nineteenth century and is now guided by the Rocca sisters, who have embraced sustainable vineyard practices and a sensitive cellar approach to highlight vineyard character. Cottà is known for producing Barbaresco with both structure and expressive fruit, thanks to its calcareous marl soils and favourable exposure.

A luminous garnet ruby fills the glass, releasing classic Nebbiolo aromas of rose petal, red cherry and raspberry alongside hints of orange peel, anise and dried herbs. There is an inviting warmth to the bouquet, balanced by a savoury mineral edge that adds complexity and authenticity.

The palate is finely detailed and persistent, delivering vibrant red berry fruit, cranberry and sour plum framed by firm yet refined tannins and bright acidity. Notes of tobacco leaf, leather and subtle spice emerge through the mid palate, leading to a long, elegant finish that feels both structured and harmonious. This Barbaresco will reward patient cellaring over fifteen to twenty years as deeper layers of truffle, dried florals and earthy nuance develop.

A superb partner for traditional northern Italian fare, it shines with braised beef, porcini risotto, roast guinea fowl or aged hard cheeses. Albino Rocca Barbaresco Cottà captures the timeless beauty of Piedmont Nebbiolo, perfect for autumn gatherings, candlelit dinners and those moments when a wine’s quiet authority elevates the entire table.