Barbaresco “Bordini” 2018 – Elvio Cogno

The 2018 Barbaresco “Bordini” from Elvio Cogno offers a profound exploration of the Nebbiolo grape, set against the rich tapestry of Piedmont’s winemaking heritage, particularly within the Barbaresco appellation. This wine not only exemplifies the varietal’s intrinsic qualities but also illuminates the unique terroir of the “Bordini” vineyard, providing insight into the symbiotic relationship between grape, land, and human touch that defines the world of fine wine.

Nebbiolo, the cornerstone of both Barolo and Barbaresco wines, is a grape that demands attention and respect for its complexity, its capacity for aging, and its ability to express the nuances of its environment with unparalleled clarity. Known for its thin skin, high tannin, and acidity levels, Nebbiolo produces wines that are as renowned for their potency and longevity as for their delicate aromas of roses, cherries, and hints of tar and spice. The grape’s name, derived from the Italian “nebbia” meaning fog, speaks to the misty autumns in Piedmont during the harvest period, adding a layer of poetic beauty to its cultivation.

The Barbaresco region, where the “Bordini” vineyard is located, is particularly suited to the cultivation of Nebbiolo. Here, the combination of calcareous clay soils, favorable microclimates, and meticulous vineyard management practices come together to create an environment where Nebbiolo can express a slightly softer, more aromatic profile than in the neighboring Barolo zone. This distinction is partly due to the slightly warmer microclimate of Barbaresco, which allows for a gentler maturation of the grape, resulting in wines that are often approachable at an earlier age without sacrificing their potential for development over time.

The “Bordini” vineyard itself is a case study in the importance of terroir in viticulture. Its specific location within the Barbaresco appellation, characterized by its particular soil composition and microclimate, contributes significantly to the distinctive character of the wines it produces. The 2018 vintage of the Barbaresco “Bordini” is a testament to the exceptional conditions of that year, which allowed for the optimal expression of Nebbiolo’s varietal characteristics, capturing the essence of the vineyard with clarity and precision.

Elvio Cogno’s approach to winemaking, which deftly combines traditional practices with modern technological insights, ensures that the unique qualities of the Nebbiolo grape and the “Bordini” terroir are preserved and enhanced in the final wine. From the careful selection of grapes through to the fermentation process and aging in oak barrels, every step is taken with the aim of achieving a wine that is balanced, complex, and deeply reflective of its origins.

Tasting the Barbaresco “Bordini” 2018 reveals a wine that is both powerful and refined, with a rich tapestry of flavors and aromas that evolve in the glass. Notes of ripe red fruits, floral undertones, and a subtle earthiness are supported by a backbone of firm tannins and a lively acidity, creating a harmonious and engaging drinking experience. This wine exemplifies the elegance and depth that Nebbiolo can achieve in the Barbaresco appellation, showcasing the potential of the “Bordini” vineyard to produce wines of exceptional quality and character.

In essence, the Barbaresco “Bordini” 2018 by Elvio Cogno stands as a celebration of the Nebbiolo grape, the Barbaresco region, and the art of winemaking. It is a testament to the enduring allure of Nebbiolo, a varietal that continues to captivate and inspire wine lovers around the world with its complexity, beauty, and versatility. Through this wine, Elvio Cogno invites enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike to explore the nuanced world of Barbaresco, offering a window into the soul of Piedmont’s viticultural landscape and the timeless elegance of Nebbiolo.