Renato Ratti Barolo Rocche Annunziata 2013 (750ML)

95 WA / 94 JS / 94 WS

The Barolo Marcenasco is aged in large casks, whereas the 2013 Barolo Rocche dell'Annunziata sees a mix of smaller wood and barrique instead for a more robust and opulent style. This approach works very nicely across from the hearty intensity and austerity displayed by the Rocche dell'Annunziata fruit. This wine is beautifully redolent of dark cherry and spice with lingering notes of balsam and medical herb that add focus to the wine's already fragrant bouquet. This vintage will require patience. The wine is hard-headed and stubborn now. It needs time to relax with age. - Monica Larner, Wine Advocate

Expressive blueberry and plum aromas with hints of burnt oranges and cloves. Medium to full body, firm and silky tannins and a tangy finish. A little loosely knit now. Give it two or three years to come together. - James Suckling

A powerful, earthy version, with plenty of richness married to cherry, licorice, eucalyptus and tobacco flavors. It's dense and verging on chewy, with a long, savory aftertaste. - Bruce Sanderson, Wine Spectator

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. - Winery