Rocche Costamagna Langhe Nebbiolo Roccardo is a refined expression of Piedmont's iconic Nebbiolo grape. This elegant red wine boasts an intense ruby hue and an inviting bouquet of violet, raspberry, and wild strawberry aromas. On the palate, it is harmonious, featuring soft tannins and a balanced structure, with a long, graceful finish. Aged for 12 months in Slavonian oak casks followed by 6 months in bottle, this wine achieves both complexity and approachability, making it versatile enough to accompany a wide array of dishes, from white meats and medium-aged cheeses to fish stews and spicy fare. Crafted with passion in the historic Langhe DOC, this wine encapsulates the essence of Italian winemaking heritage while offering immense value and sophistication. Enjoy it now or within the next several years for an exceptional taste of Italy.
Process & Profile
Rocche Costamagna Roccardo Langhe Nebbiolo is crafted in the heart of Piedmont, Italy, a region steeped in winemaking heritage since 1841. This exquisite red wine is 100% Nebbiolo, sourced from limestone-rich vineyards in La Morra and Verduno. It undergoes meticulous vinification, with an 8-day maceration at controlled temperatures to extract its bold flavors. The wine is then aged for 12 months in large Slavonian oak casks and an additional 6 months in the bottle, ensuring harmonious integration of its complex characteristics. With an alcohol content of 14%, this Langhe Nebbiolo exemplifies the elegance and expressive terroir of Piedmont.
Tasting Notes
Roccardo Langhe Nebbiolo captivates the senses from the first pour with its brilliant garnet hue. The bouquet reveals pronounced aromas of ripe raspberries, blackberries, and delicate floral hints of violets. On the palate, it strikes a perfect balance between freshness and structure, featuring soft tannins and a refined acidity. Layers of fruit are complemented by subtle earthy undertones, creating an elegant and lingering finish that is both satisfying and nuanced—a versatile wine that pairs well with a variety of dishes or stands beautifully on its own.
What Makes It Special
Rocche Costamagna Roccardo Langhe Nebbiolo stands out for its commitment to tradition and quality. The Costamagna family has been at the forefront of Piedmontese winemaking for generations, employing sustainable viticulture practices that respect the land and its natural rhythms. Each grape is hand-picked, reflecting the meticulous attention to detail in every bottle. The wine is a testament to the expressive nature of Nebbiolo and the unique limestone terroirs of Langhe. With its 12-month oak aging, this vintage skillfully balances power with finesse, offering a wine that is approachable yet capable of aging gracefully for up to a decade.
How to Enjoy
For the best experience, serve Rocche Costamagna Roccardo Langhe Nebbiolo slightly cool at 14-16°C (57-61°F). Decant the wine for at least one hour to allow its aromas and flavors to fully develop. Its versatile nature makes it an excellent pairing with rich, hearty dishes such as mushroom risotto, braised beef, or roasted lamb. It also shines with classic Italian cuisines like pasta with truffle or aged cheeses. Whether shared during a special dinner or savored casually, this wine offers an authentic taste of Piedmont's winemaking excellence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What flavors can I expect from this wine?
The Rocche Costamagna Roccardo Langhe Nebbiolo offers intense fruity aromas of raspberry, blackberry, and wild strawberry, complemented by floral notes of violet. On the palate, it is elegant and harmonious with soft tannins, making it versatile for pairing.
Where is this wine produced?
This Nebbiolo comes from the Langhe DOC region in Piedmont, Italy, where the grape thrives in calcareous marl and sandy soils. The area is renowned for producing expressive Nebbiolo wines.
How should I serve this wine?
Serve slightly below room temperature (around 60-65°F / 16-18°C). Decanting for 30-60 minutes before serving can enhance its aromatic complexity and soften the tannins further.
What foods pair well with this Nebbiolo?
It pairs beautifully with Italian dishes like truffle risotto, osso buco, or lamb chops. Its acidity and tannins also complement fatty foods like duck confit or aged cheeses such as Grana Padano.
How long can I cellar this wine?
While approachable young, Langhe Nebbiolo can age for 5-10 years, developing deeper notes of leather, dried fruit, and truffle. Store bottles horizontally in a cool, dark place.
How does Langhe Nebbiolo differ from Barolo or Barbaresco?
Langhe Nebbiolo is often fruitier and more accessible than its prestigious counterparts, with shorter aging requirements. It's sometimes called a "baby Barolo" for its similar profile at a friendlier price.
Is this wine suitable for vegetarians/vegans?
Most traditional Nebbiolo wines use minimal processing, but specifics depend on the winery's practices. Contact the producer for confirmation.
Why is the color lighter than other red wines?
Nebbiolo's pigments oxidize easily, giving it a translucent garnet hue despite its bold tannins and structure. This is typical of the variety.
Can I find this wine outside Italy?
Yes, Rocche Costamagna exports internationally. Check with specialty wine retailers or online platforms like Millesima USA for availability.
What makes Nebbiolo unique?
Nebbiolo is finicky to grow but produces age-worthy wines with high acidity, tannins, and complex earthy-floral aromatics. Its name derives from *nebbia* (fog), referencing Piedmont's autumnal vineyards.