Nebbiolo enthusiasts routinely flock to the muscle of Barolo or the sensuality of Barbaresco, but cross to the northern side of the Tanaro River and you arrive in Roero—a pristine terroir sitting directly across from Barolo, closer to it than Barbaresco itself. Try finding a back-vintage, single-cru Barolo or Barbaresco anywhere near $49. If you manage to locate one at that price, chances are it's a tired bottle languishing on a retail shelf collecting dust. This bottle arrives directly from Matteo Correggia’s historic cellar: a pristine, single-site flagship bursting with soul, power, and mineral elegance.

Matteo Correggia put Roero on the fine wine map before his tragic passing in 2001, after which his widow Ornella and iconic neighbors like Giorgio Rivetti ensured the estate remained a benchmark. The legendary “Ròche d’Ampsèj” vineyard is the crown jewel of their holdings, set on steep, sand-heavy marine sediments over deep clay and marl. This unique geology imparts an extraordinarily perfumed lift to Nebbiolo while crafting a structure that rivals Barolo's grandest sites. Crafted from 30 to 40-year-old vines, organic fruit, and aged in wood followed by extended bottle resting, it delivers all the stature of a classic collectible at a fraction of the cost.

In the glass, the 2018 reveals a deep ruby core with a subtle garnet rim, bursting open with a room-filling perfume of macerated cherries, orange peel, sweet cedar, dried roses, and dusty earth. The palate is supple on entry, unfolding into concentrated layers of ripe dark fruit, crushed stone, and polished, structure-giving tannins. Vibrant acidity keeps the 14.5% alcohol perfectly in check, carrying into a long finish echoing with woodsmoke and spice. Decant for an hour and serve in broad Burgundy stems alongside braised beef, wild boar ragù, or rich mushroom risotto for a stunning showcase of pristine Nebbiolo.

Molte Grazie!

Critical Acclaim:

94 Points, Vinous Media:

“The 2018 Roero Riserva Roche d'Ampsèj is powerful, complex and beguiling. Macerated cherry, cinnamon, orange peel cedar and dried flowers all open over time. Deep and pliant, with terrific depth and polished tannins, the 2018 Roche d'Ampsèj is an absolute delight. Drink it over the next decade or so.” - Antonio Galloni, Nov. 2022