Balsamic aromas and flavors of eucalyptus and tomato leaf are matched to a core of ripe cherry, plum and earth. Though lean and austere now, this compact red offers a core of fruit and, in the end, nice equilibrium and impressive length. Best from 2029 through 2047. 1,420 cases made, 300 cases imported.
95 points, Bruce Sanderson, Wine Spectator (Aug 2025)
Forest floor, new leather, dark spice and sun-warmed hay mingle with botanical herb on the impressive 2021 Rabajà from Giuseppe Cortese. It's full-bodied and savory, with flavors of juicy Morello cherry, raspberry, star anise and white pepper that before an almost salty mineral finish. A backbone of firm, refined tannins provides support while fresh acidity keeps it balanced and energized.
96 points, Kerin O'Keefe (Apr 2024)
The 2021 Barbaresco Rabajà is complex, dynamic and youthfully austere—in other words, it's classic Rabajà. Dark-toned fruit, menthol, licorice, spice, gravel, incense, tobacco and dried herbs fill out the layers. Medium in body and complex, with myriad shades of expression, the 2021 is a drop-dead gorgeous beauty. Readers can also expect a Riserva edition.
95 points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous (Oct 2024)
A deeper ruby/red color, the 2021 Barbaresco Rabaja has all the components of the entry wine amplified further, with notes of medicinal herbs, turned soil, sappy herbs, dried cherries, and orange peel. Medium-bodied, it offers good length, balance, and persistence on the palate. It’s angular but has ripe tannins, good freshness, and a persistent, savory finish with notes of dark rocky earth. This is a very well-done effort from Giuseppe Cortese.
94 points, Audrey Frick, Jeb Dunnuck (May 2024)
A charming, fruits-and-flowers aroma and the rather broad and velvety palate make this one enjoyable already. Rose petals, orange zest, red cherries and a hint of tart cherry provide plenty of pleasure, while relatively soft tannins keep it smooth. Best through to 2030.
94 points, Jim Gordon, James Suckling (Jan 2024)