Cogno Cascina Nuova Barolo DOCG 2016

Situated in the heart of the Barolo zone, the Cogno estate has long been recognized for producing expressive, terroir-driven Nebbiolo. The 2016 Cascina Nuova Barolo DOCG is sourced from well-exposed vineyard parcels in La Morra, yielding a wine that combines classic Barolo structure with aromatic lift and refined elegance. Careful vineyard management and traditional winemaking techniques ensure a precise, age-worthy expression of one of Piemonte’s most esteemed crus.

Appearance

A deep garnet with a bright ruby core, showing excellent clarity. The wine exhibits slow-forming legs on the glass, suggesting both concentration and silky texture, with a rim beginning to show the gentle garnet-orange hues typical of mature Nebbiolo.

Nose

A complex and layered bouquet. Ripe red cherry, raspberry and wild strawberry appear first, followed by floral hints of dried rose petals and violet. Subtler aromas of tar, sweet tobacco, cedar, licorice and a touch of earthy truffle emerge with air, alongside finely grained mineral notes that reflect the calcareous-clay soils of the vineyard. A whisper of dried herbs and gentle spice (white pepper, clove) adds depth and refinement.

Palate

Structured, elegant and finely balanced. Juicy red and black fruit, cherry, cranberry, and mulberry, moves across a framework of silky, well-integrated tannins. The mid-palate reveals layers of sweet spice, subtle leather, and hints of underbrush and mushroom. Acidity is vibrant and vertical, providing clarity and drive, while the finish is long, resonant, and classically Barolo: mineral, floral, and with a persistent, savory note that signals further evolution in bottle.

Overall

Cogno’s 2016 Cascina Nuova Barolo DOCG is a superbly expressive, age-worthy Nebbiolo that embodies the elegance of La Morra. Its lifted aromatics, refined tannins, and mineral backbone make it a perfect companion to braised veal, truffle risotto, roasted game birds, or mature cheeses. While approachable now after careful decanting, the 2016 vintage shows excellent cellaring potential, with the structure and complexity to develop nuanced tertiary notes of dried flowers, forest floor, and sweet spice over the next 10–15 years.