2000 Barbaresco Rabaja
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Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2000 Barbaresco Rabaja is marvelous. It is also the most backward of Giacosa's 2000s. Intense notes of mienrals, menthol, plums and spicecake take shape in the glass as this regal, aristocratic Barbaresco reveals its pedigree and sheer class. Here the warmth of the vintage offsets the natural austerity of Rabaja, resulting in a complete, beautifully balanced Barbaresco of the highest level. The Red Labels get most of the attention among Giacosa's 2000s, but the Rabaja isn't too far off the pace. Personally, I find it more interesting than the Rocche.
My guess is that one day Giacosa's Barbaresco Rabajà will be viewed as the most successful of his 2000 Barbareschi. I loved the wine's structure and power. Endless layers of mineral and balsamic-infused fruit caressed the palate through to the finish. Wow!
Brick-red, a bit less deep than the Asili. Lower-pitched aromas of chocolate, mocha, smoke and animal fur; the fruit is in the background today. Then fat, dense and sweet in the mouth, with more structure and grip than the Asili and a less roasted character. Very long finish features ripe, building tannins.
About the producer
Bruno Giacosa – now run by daughter Bruna – is a cult Nebbiolo producer, that has consistently made some of the best single-vineyard Barbaresco and Barolo from the 1960s onwards. The“red-label” Riservas are some of the finest and most collectable wines in Italy.