Barolo Ravera “Bricco Pernice” 2018 – Elvio Cogno

The 2018 Barolo DOCG Ravera “Bricco Pernice” from Elvio Cogno is an exquisite testament to the alchemy of place, tradition, and the meticulous pursuit of excellence that defines the storied wine region of Barolo. Hailing from the “Bricco Pernice” plot within the revered Ravera vineyard, this vintage encapsulates the essence of the Nebbiolo grape, articulated through the unique lens of one of Piedmont’s most celebrated terroirs. Crafted by the esteemed Elvio Cogno winery, a name synonymous with the highest expressions of Italian winemaking, the “Bricco Pernice” stands as a paragon of Barolo’s complexity, depth, and capacity for grace.

Nestled in the Novello commune, the Ravera vineyard is distinguished by its calcareous clay soils and a microclimate ideally suited to the cultivation of Nebbiolo. The “Bricco Pernice” plot, in particular, benefits from a south-western exposure, granting the vines ample sunlight, while the vineyard’s altitude ensures a cooling influence that preserves the grapes’ acidity and aromatic complexity. This unique combination of environmental factors contributes to the development of grapes that embody the intensity and finesse for which Barolo is renowned.

The 2018 vintage was characterized by a climatic equilibrium that provided the perfect conditions for Nebbiolo to flourish. The balance of warmth and precipitation throughout the growing season allowed for a slow, even maturation of the grapes, ensuring a wine of remarkable balance and expressiveness. The team at Elvio Cogno, with their deep-rooted understanding of the land and its cycles, managed the vineyard with an unwavering commitment to sustainability and precision, ensuring that the “Bricco Pernice” would fully express the potential of its vintage and terroir.

In the winery, the “Bricco Pernice” was crafted with an artisanal approach that reflects Elvio Cogno’s dedication to both tradition and innovation. The grapes, hand-harvested at the peak of their ripeness, were vinified with a respect for the time-honored methods that have shaped Piedmontese winemaking, while embracing techniques that enhance the wine’s quality and character. The wine was aged in large oak casks, a choice that allows for the subtle integration of wood, complementing the wine’s structure without diminishing its vibrancy and purity.

Upon tasting, the 2018 Barolo DOCG Ravera “Bricco Pernice” unfolds a complex array of aromas and flavors that capture the spirit of its origin. The nose is greeted with layers of red fruits, floral nuances, and an earthy depth, while the palate experiences a wine of profound structure, supported by firm tannins and a lively acidity. This harmonious interplay results in a Barolo that is both powerful and refined, with a finish that lingers, inviting contemplation and further exploration.

The “Bricco Pernice” is more than a reflection of the 2018 vintage; it is a manifestation of the Elvio Cogno family’s passion for winemaking and their deep connection to the Langhe region. Through this wine, they offer a narrative that spans generations, a narrative of a winery committed to producing wines that are not only expressions of Nebbiolo but also testaments to the land from which they spring.

In conclusion, the 2018 Barolo DOCG Ravera “Bricco Pernice” by Elvio Cogno is a celebration of the unparalleled beauty and complexity of Barolo. It stands as a tribute to the Ravera vineyard, the Nebbiolo grape, and the artisanal winemaking philosophy that elevates this wine to the realm of the extraordinary. Through the “Bricco Pernice,” Elvio Cogno invites us to experience the essence of Barolo, offering a wine that is a profound expression of place, tradition, and the enduring pursuit of excellence.