The Elvio Cogno estate is located in the village of Novello, nestled between Monforte d’Alba and Barolo itself. The Ravera vineyard is the top site in Novello and the Bricco Pernice is the best portion of that vineyard for Nebbiolo vines. Elvio Cogno’s daughter Nadia and her husband Valter Fissore now run the estate and create classic, elegant Barolos. Cogno’s 2013 Ravera Bricco Pernice is a benchmark for the entire Barolo appellation. The long ripening period of the 2013 harvest adds depth and nuance to an already exquisite wine. The bouquet is forward and complex, with sweet cherry and raspberry fruits enhanced by the classic “forest floor” style of Barolo — elements of sandalwood, dried leaves, flowers, cocoa, herbs, anise, and baking spices are all present and in harmony. The flavors are multilayered and rich with the ripe red fruits interwoven with leafy, herbal elements as well as the sandalwood, vanilla and spice components. Although approachable and thoroughly enjoyable now for its generous fruit, the 2013 Cogno Ravera Bricco Pernice Barolo will develop and improve for another 20+ years in the cellar.
Elvio Cogno, Barolo DOCG (Piedmont, Italy) 2013
By Wayne Belding