Description

RED CELLAR TRIO WINE CLUB SELECTION

Established in the 1900s, the Rocca family’s wines are still somewhat of an insider’s secret, representing some of the better values in Barbaresco. Winemaker Giancarlo Rocca is the fourth generation of the Rocca clan to live in the house built by the family, surrounded by ‘Ronchi’ cru vines, which run along the eastern edge of the appellation, near the historic town of Neive. Bordered by Montestefano to the north and Moccagatta to the south, the vineyard is shaped like a perfect amphitheater, capturing the sun and giving Nebbiolo both the ripe concentration and elegance that is the hallmark of fine Barbaresco. In recent years, the family has planted Arneis vines, Piedmont’s noble white grape, and is exploring aging wines in terracotta amphorae, an ancient technique that is seeing a bit of a revival. When done well, it produces compelling wines—as demonstrated with this bottling.

100% Nebbiolo, from estate vines, planted between 1985 and 2016, in soils that are a combination of limestone and clay-rich marl. Giancarlo can walk from his cellar door to his vines in less than a minute. All work is performed by hand, and as sustainably as possible. No herbicides or pesticides are used. The grapes were hand-harvested, destemmed and fermented on indigenous yeasts in temperature-controlled, stainless-steel tanks. Aged in terracotta amphorae for one year.

Classic aromas of dried cherry laced with a touch of rose. The palate is surprisingly plush, with a delightfully silky texture; flavors of red cherry, currants are met with hints of rose petals and notes of clay. Elegantly structured with a graceful acid backbone, complemented by perfectly polished tannins. 1,000 bottles produced.