2001 Barolo San Rocco

Azelia’s best-known wine may be the Bricco Fiasco, but in 2001 as in other recent vintages I find the San Rocco even more compelling. It is more intense and masculine in its expression of Serralunga terroir, with a complex nose of smoke, scorched earth, minerals and spices. As it sits in the glass the wine opens, gradually revealing notes of rich dense dark fruit with plenty of structure, finishing with broad yet fine tannins and tremendous overall balance. It is an immensely satisfying modern-styled Barolo. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2016. Luigi Scavino may be less well known than some of his more famous neighbors, but make no mistake about it, the wines from Scavino’s estate, Azelia, can hold their own with the very best of the region. The wines combine power and elegance with a level of virtuosity matched by few in the region. Although the wines show much concentration and oak influence, there can be no doubt that the overall balance and sense of proportion of these wines is excellent. “My dream is to make a wine that is great today, but that will be even better in 10 years and in 20 years,” says Scavino. Speaking of his 2001s, Scavino says, “I prefer 2001 to 2000, it was a vintage with less heat, so the wines are fresher and more typical?more ‘Piedmontese’ if you will.” Antonio Galloni, Wine Advocate # 167 Oct 2006