2000 Barolo Rocche

The 2000 Barolo Rocche has fared better than the Brunate, but it is a far cry from some of the truly legendary Rocches I have tasted here and elsewhere. The 2000 is rather burly Rocche, with little of the finesse that is this wine’s calling card. Sweet mint and floral notes add freshness on the finish. Though not especially vibrant, the 2000 Rocche should last another decade or so on the strength of its fruit. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2020. Long-time readers know the late 1990s and early 2000s were a period of transition at Vietti. It was a time of experimentation with winemaking that led to the growth that now informs the spectacular wines of more recent vintages. Importer: Dalla Terra, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 259-5405

Moving into the 1990s, I admired the 1996 and 1999, two wines which share many similarities as they are both products of cool, fresh growing seasons. The 2000 enjoyed a stellar showing. Although it revealed many qualities that were reminiscent of the 1997, it also appeared to offer better balance and harmony as it was less obvious in its expression of the hot vintage.

Medium red. Complex aromas of underbrush, licorice, mocha and licorice; red berry notes emerged with aeration. Large-scaled, ripe and rich; a huge wine that finishes with serious but completely smooth tannins that saturate the teeth and cheeks. Boasts great length and thrust for the vintage.