Aged for 28 months in cask, the bright ruby 2020 Barolo Coste Di Rose was a little more reserved at this tasting. It reveals a hint of blood orange citrus along with its notes of cola, ripe strawberries, and raspberries. Medium-bodied, it has finely tensioned tannins and a clean, mouthwatering finish. It’s a very pretty wine. Drink 2026-2046.
96 points, Audrey Frick, Jeb Dunnuck (May 2024)
A beam of fresh cherry and strawberry permeates this graceful red, driven by a vibrant structure. Flashes of sun-kissed hay, iron and mint add depth as this cruises to a lingering conclusion. Very harmonious, with a chalky sensation on the long, complex aftertaste. Best from 2028 through 2050.
96 points, Bruce Sanderson, Wine Spectator (Jul 2024)
A Barolo of remarkable elegance and complexity. Lifted aromas of mixed wild berries, candied rose petals, cinnamon, and whole clove, are accompanied by warm, earthy notes. Tart cherries and cranberries dominate the palate, with woodsy undertones and chewy tannins that provide heft without overpowering. Savory and medicinal herbs linger on the finish, making this a captivating expression of this renowned cru. Drink Now - 2045
94 points, Jeff Porter, Wine Enthusiast (Sep 2024)
White pepper, dried roses, berries and mineral on the nose. Really elegant and chalky on the palate with medium to full body and a linear finish. Pure and driven. Drink or hold.
94 points, James Suckling (Feb 2024)
The 2020 vintage had good weather during flowering; Giuseppe believes this impacts the wines tremendously; whether it was lack of pollution during the lockdown, he considers that vine rows flowered gorgeously in the Barolo communes. The result is a vintage of fruitiness. He used more extended skin contacts to balance the fruitiness with a good structure for longevity's sake. Between bud break and picking was about 203 days; long and late picking is a blessing for Nebbiolo Vajra believes. Coste di Rose has the lowest elevation of the Vajra vineyards, and the newest, 2015, was the first vintage. It's relatively unknown even though it is pretty central between Canubi and Brunate. Red fruited and forward, perhaps with less structure, red and blue berries, mouthfuls of lavender and clove, and raspberry leaf offer a bright, herbaceous character that lifts the finish.
94 points, Clive Pursehouse, Decanter (Mar 2024)