The Rizzi Barbaresco Pajorè is a masterfully crafted expression of Nebbiolo from one of the most prestigious crus in the Langhe hills of Piedmont, Italy. This elegant wine showcases a brilliant garnet hue with fragrant aromas of red berries, violets, and hints of earth and spices. On the palate, its refined structure reveals layers of succulent red fruit, baking spices, and a touch of mint, supported by firm yet silky tannins. Known for its delicate balance of power and finesse, the Pajorè vineyard's calcareous marl soils imbue the wine with exceptional complexity and aging potential. Perfectly suited for pairing with hearty Italian dishes or fine cuts of meat, the Rizzi Barbaresco Pajorè offers an unforgettable taste of Piedmont's winemaking heritage.
Process & Profile
The Rizzi Barbaresco Pajorè is produced exclusively from 100% Nebbiolo grapes, grown on limestone-rich marl soils in the exceptional Pajorè vineyard located in Treiso, one of the most esteemed areas in Barbaresco. The steep hillsides of this vineyard allow the vines to bask in optimal sunlight, ensuring perfect ripening.
Carefully hand-harvested in early October, the grapes are fermented in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures, preserving their vibrant aromas. The wine then undergoes aging in large oak botti for 12-18 months, followed by additional refinement in the bottle, enhancing both its structure and ageability. With an alcohol content of 14.5%, this is a powerful yet elegant red wine that reflects the unique microclimate of its origin.
Tasting Notes
Rizzi Barbaresco Pajorè delivers a multi-layered sensory experience:
-
Aroma: Rich bouquets of wild cherry, rose petals, and violet dominate, complemented by subtle notes of licorice, thyme, and mint, with a smoky undertone.
-
Palate: The wine is full-bodied, vibrant, and impeccably balanced, offering waves of ripe red fruits like cherry and raspberry, intertwined with flavors of anise, dried herbs, and mineral notes. The texture is velvety, infused with ripe tannins that provide structure and a finish that is both lingering and tangy.
-
Finish: Expect a long, licorice-tinged conclusion—a hallmark of classic Barbaresco wines.
What Makes It Special
Rizzi's Pajorè vineyard wines stand out for their purity, finesse, and ability to age gracefully. Managed by the Dellapiana family since the 1970s, the estate is committed to sustainable practices under initiatives like "The Green Experience," which emphasizes environmentally friendly viticulture.
This Barbaresco is a blend of craftsmanship and terroir, with its grapes grown on steep, chalky soils that contribute to its minerality and complexity. The Nebbiolo grape shines here, producing a wine that is less tannic than Barolo but equally ageworthy, making it approachable even in its youth while promising decades of potential in the cellar.
How to Enjoy
-
Food Pairings: Perfectly suited for hearty Piedmontese dishes such as white truffle risotto, braised veal, or mushroom-stuffed ravioli. Its versatility also complements aged cheeses, roasted lamb, or even wild game.
-
Serving Tips: Decant the wine for at least an hour before serving to unlock its aromatic complexity. Serve at 16–18°C (60–65°F) in a wide-bowled glass to enhance its bouquet.
-
Aging Potential: Though enjoyable now, this wine will continue to evolve beautifully over the next 15 to 20 years, developing deeper flavors and softer tannins with time.
Rizzi Barbaresco Pajor√® is more than a wine—it's an invitation to explore the storied history and breathtaking flavors of Piedmont. Whether savored today or laid down for special occasions in the future, this wine embodies the timeless artistry of Barbaresco.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Rizzi Barbaresco Pajoré made from?
Rizzi Barbaresco Pajoré is produced exclusively from Nebbiolo grapes, a noble and indigenous varietal of the Piedmont region in Northwestern Italy. The wine reflects the characteristics of the prestigious Pajoré vineyard.
What are some tasting notes for Rizzi Barbaresco Pajoré?
Rizzi Barbaresco Pajoré exhibits aromas of dried roses, violets, and ripe cherry, along with subtle notes of truffles, licorice, and spices. On the palate, it is elegant and complex, with balanced acidity, refined tannins, and a long, harmonious finish.
How long can I age Rizzi Barbaresco Pajoré?
This wine has excellent aging potential due to its structure and tannins. It can be aged for several decades under proper storage conditions, developing additional complexity over time.
At what temperature should I serve this wine?
Rizzi Barbaresco Pajoré is best served at a temperature of 18–20°C (64–68°F). Allowing it to aerate by opening the bottle at least one hour before serving enhances its aromas and flavors.
What foods pair well with Rizzi Barbaresco Pajoré?
This wine pairs beautifully with hearty dishes like roasted meats, game, stews, aged cheeses, and traditional Piedmont cuisine featuring truffle-based dishes or mushroom sauces. It is also a delightful complement to pasta with rich meat sauces.
How is Rizzi Barbaresco Pajoré different from Barolo?
Both wines are made from Nebbiolo grapes, but Barbaresco, including Rizzi Pajoré, is produced in a slightly milder climate, resulting in a wine that is less tannic and more approachable at a younger age compared to Barolo. Barbaresco is known for its elegance and finesse, whereas Barolo is often more robust.
What makes the Pajoré vineyard special?
The Pajoré vineyard is one of the most renowned "crus" of Barbaresco, situated on limestone-rich marl soils at an ideal altitude. These conditions contribute to the wine's refined elegance, complex aromatics, and excellent aging potential.
What is the proper glassware for enjoying Rizzi Barbaresco Pajoré?
For the best experience, it is recommended to serve this wine in a wide-bowl red wine glass. This allows the wine to breathe and fully express its bouquet and flavors.
What is the aging requirement for Barbaresco wines?
Barbaresco must be aged for at least 26 months, including a minimum of 9 months in oak. For a Riserva designation, the aging requirement is extended to 50 months, including 24 months in oak.
What distinguishes Rizzi Barbaresco Pajoré from other Barbaresco wines?
Rizzi Barbaresco Pajoré stands out due to its terroir-driven expression from the Pajoré vineyard, offering exceptional elegance, balance, and a nuanced profile of fruit, floral, and earthy notes, making it one of the finest examples of Barbaresco.
