2011 Barolo Rocche dell Annunziata Riserva

This is among Paolo Scavino's latest releases. The 2011 Barolo Rocche dell'Annunziata Riserva is a profound and generous wine from a hot vintage. The fruit is opulent and soft with blackberry, dried cherry and dark plum on prime display. The wine emits clear confidence and quality that is evident in the intensity and the depth displayed here. Additional layering and complexity is provided by lingering tones of spice, tobacco, moist earth and white truffle. This beautifully-crafted Barolo delivers the grace and the inherent age-worthiness of the La Morra township.

Tasted blind. La Morra. Deep ruby with orange tinges. Subtle yet concentrated nose with hints of posh oak. Cherry and dried-fruit palate with supple acidity and a layer of muscular tannins. Very youthful and backward. Built like a brick house. (WS)

The 2011 Barolo Riserva Rocche dell'Annunziata shows why this is one of the greatest sites in Piedmont. The silkiest and most gracious of these Barolos, the Rocche is all about texture, polish and pure class. Rose petal, sweet red berries, cinnamon and pine are all laced into the super-expressive finish. The Rocche often drinks beautifully upon release, but it is also quite ageworthy as well. Readers can look forward to a long drinking window of pure pleasure here.