2016 Renato Ratti Barolo Rocche dell’Annunziata

Winery notes:

“The vineyard of Rocche dell’Annunziata is historically considered one of the most important of the all Barolo area. It’s located at around 300 slm with a south-west exposure and the size is around 1.50 ha. The typical blue marl soil with some layers of sand gives an incredible elegance and deep and persistent bouquet of roses and licorice. A great wine for important dishes, red meats on the spit or grilled, game, “grande cuisine” white and red meat dishes and aged cheeses.

“The single-vineyard Rocche dell’Annunziata is our most elegant, complex and long-lasting Barolo, offering the refined, silky tannins and bright acidity typical of the site. Complex yet delicate aromas of wild berries, juniper and florals offer an intriguing glimpse of this soulful Barolo. The deep, layered palate offers notes of crushed raspberries, red currant, bright red cherry and baking spice before a long, balanced finish marked by fine-grained tannins. Tremendously age-worthy, this Barolo will age beautifully for more than 20 years.”

Critical Acclaim:

“97 points.

“Glossy, elegant and full bodied, this beauty opens with aromas of dark berry, menthol, wild rose and exotic spice. The delicious, finessed palate doles out mouthfuls of juicy red cherry, raspberry compote, vanilla and licorice framed in taut, fine-grained tannins. Vibrant acidity keeps it focused and lends youthful tension. Drink 2024–2046.” – Wine Enthusiast

“95 points.

“A chewy and polished red with berry and tile character and hints of plums. Medium-to full-bodied. Chewy tannins that are polished and firm. Very pretty. One of the best ever. Better after 2021.” – James Suckling

“95 points.

“Pietro Ratti’s 2015 Barolo Rocche dell’Annunziata is the most structured and firmly textured of the Barolos presented in this tasting of new releases. This wine is tight and compact at its core, but it needs a little prodding and swirling of the glass before it hints at the grandeur and the layering of fruit nuances embedded in its very DNA. Just give it time, this wine requires a little extra patience before it fully blossoms. All those beautiful Nebbiolo complexities are hidden just below the surface and will emerge with more bottle aging. Only 5,000 bottles were made.” – Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate