2009 Barolo Rocche dell Annunziata
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Tasting notes
(from a higher-altitude, southwest-facing, more sandy parcel of old vines that's picked a bit earlier than the Conca; this went through its malolactic fermentation in new oak, then was moved into larger, more neutral barrels): Good deep red. Highly perfumed aromas of blackberry, black cherry and licorice. Densely packed, juicy and tight, showing excellent energy to its dark fruit and spice flavors. Like a deeper, smoother version of the Marcenasco--and quite different from the more balsamic, muscular Conca--but still in a rather feminine style. Finishes with dense but silky tannins and lovely lingering sweetness.
Critic scores
Average Score
Walter Speller, jancisrobinson.com
Walter Speller, jancisrobinson.com
More reviews and scores
Just mid ruby with orange tinges. Earthy malt notes, almost a touch nutty and broodingly sweet on the nose. A mouthful of ripe fruit framed by big, grainy tannins. Already approachable, if tannic. (WS)
Commune of La Morra. Mid to deep ruby. Very lifted (VA?) and energetic on the nose. Lifted dark fruit and lots of well handled oak. Quite a different Rocche from the rest of the flight. Still very young with bags of grainy tannins. Modernist but well done, and not a little controversial. (WS)
The 2009 Barolo Rocche represents a departure from the norm. Between the warm vintage and the use of oak, I found this wine to be over the top. There is beauty here, but you need to look past the forest to see the trees. Inky dark extraction is rounded off by meaty, masculine tones of ripe fruit and spice. The mouthfeel is opulent and velvety. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2025. You can always count on Pietro Ratti for a fine bottle of wine. He is one of the most consistent and bankable producers in La Morra especially for those who enjoy the softer and more sensual side of Barolo. Importer: Dreyfus Ashby & Co., New York, NY; tel. (212) 818-0770