Staff Pick 2014 Elvio Cogno Barolo Ravera - Why Pay More? [NHWItkcJ]

From: Piedmont, Italy

Varietal: Nebbiolo

Ravera is the name of the cru where the vineyard is located. This vineyard encircles the cellar and is essentially the hillside vineyard surrounding the farm — the great, classic cru of Novello.

Tasting Notes & Critical Acclaim: The color is dark garnet red. The nose is elegant and complex with hints of small berries followed by rose petals, several balsamic notes, aromatic herbs, and black tea leaves. On the palate it is full-bodied. The deep, velvety tannins are perfectly melted and the fresh acidity produces a very long and balanced aftertaste. The mouthfeel is like a symphony where all the instruments play in tune.

"The Ravera cru of Novello is quietly growing in prestige and consistency. It is becoming one of the latest additions to an elite list of grand cru sites in the Barolo appellation. That quality is demonstrated in a difficult vintage such as this. The 2014 Barolo Ravera is a tight and polished expression with a glossy and gleaming personality. The fruit is fine-tuned and small in range, but it hits the senses with pinpoint precision. The wine shows the taut tightness of its youth and will flesh out with a few more years of cellar aging. Some 18,000 bottles were released." –Monica Larner, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, 92 points (September 2018)

"The fruit and depth of this wine is very pretty. With brightness and transparency. Plums, and cherries with dried flowers and spices. Medium to full body, bright fruit, and acidity. A powerful finish. A fantastic 2014. Drink in 2020." –James Suckling, 95 points (September 2018)

"Pure cherry and strawberry fruit grace this delicate Barolo. Elements of licorice, tar, and mineral add complexity and there is adequate structure. Still, this should be approachable early for the lightweight and balance. Best from 2021 through 2036." –Bruce Sanderson, Wine Spectator, 93 points (November 2018)

"Woodland berry, blue flower, forest floor, truffle, and menthol aromas take center stage on this polished red. It's full-bodied and inviting, offering Marasca cherry, pomegranate, white pepper, and star anise set against fresh acidity and refined tannins. It's already almost approachable but will also offer years of pleasure." –Kerin O'Keefe, Wine Enthusiast, 92 points (November 2018)