Few estates in Piedmont command the heritage or dual-region mastery of Castello di Verduno. Directly descended from the legendary Commendatore G.B. Burlotto, the family holds rare, aristocratic footings across both Barolo and Barbaresco. Their 1970s-planted vines in Barbaresco's crown-jewel Rabajà cru yield one of the most finessed, ethereal wines in the region—where radiant power meets striking mineral purity. Vinified traditionally with extended skin maceration and aged in large Slavonian oak casks (botte grande), it offers an unvarnished, transparent expression of site.
The 2019 vintage is an absolute classic for the cellar, defined by structural verticality, vibrant acidity, and weightless elegance. Where Rabajà’s limestone, chalk, and iron-rich clay converge on a sun-drenched amphitheater, 50-year-old vines deliver a signature balance of inner muscle and high-toned aromatics that rival the most sought-after Crus on earth.
95 Points / Editors' Choice, Wine Enthusiast:
“Delicate aromas of blue flower, red berry and a hint of underbrush waft out of the glass. Elegant and firmly structured, the savory palate offers crushed raspberry, ripe cherry and baking spice alongside taut tannins. Fresh acidity keeps it balanced. 2027–2039.” — Kerin O'Keefe”
94 Points, Vinous Media:
“The 2019 Barbaresco Rabajà is another compelling wine in this range from Castello di Verduno. Sweet red cherry, kirsch, rose petal, mint, spice, earthiness, crushed rocks and pipe tobacco are all beautifully lifted. Medium in body, with compelling inner sweetness and tons of finesse, the 2019 is positively stellar. Best of all, it will drink well with minimal cellaring, which is unusual for a Rabajà.” - Antonio Galloni
Why We Like It
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Dual-Region Pedigree: Directly linked to the historic Burlotto lineage, with rare benchmark holdings in both Barolo and Barbaresco.
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Crown Jewel Cru: Sourced from 50-year-old vines in Rabajà, universally recognized as one of the top three single vineyards in Barbaresco.
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Uncompromising Traditionalism: Native-yeast fermentations, extended maceration, and patient aging in neutral Slavonian oak casks.
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Benchmark Cellar Vintage: The 2019 growing season delivered ideal structural architecture, bright acidity, and decades of aging potential.
How To Serve It
- Serve at cool room temperature between 60°F and 65°F.
- Decant for 1.5 to 2 hours to help the tight 2019 Nebbiolo structure relax.
- Pour into burgundy stems to frame its intricate, perfumed bouquet.
- Pair with agnolotti del plin, roasted lamb shoulder, or braised duck.