Barolo, San Rocco, 1999
A single vineyard Barolo from the heavier soils of the Serralunga commune. It reflects the archetypal sturdiness of the Serralunga wines. In the words of Luigi Scavino "If Castiglione Barolo is like a ballet dancer, then Serralunga Barolo is a soldier." An eruption of ripe wild black fruits, sweet plums and dark brooding expresso and spicy liquorice note
critic reviews
The 1999 Barolo San Rocco possesses gorgeous depth and richness. Layers of dark red fruit, smoke, tar, licorice and plums all take shape in the glass in this powerful, beautifully articulated Barolo. In 1999 the San Rocco stands out for its plush, authoritative core of fruit and firm, sturdy tannins. The broad shoulders and pure richness of Serralunga come through in spades. Full tertiary aromas are another few years away, so I would suggest cellaring the 1999 for a little while longer. Still, with air, the 1999 San Rocco is gorgeous today. In truth, the 1999 has been striking since the very beginning.
The 1999 Barolo San Rocco, from a vineyard in Serralunga dAlba, is the most complete of the trio. Ruby/garnet, it is the most expressive in its fruit, with ample plum and black cherry notes, well endowed with the classic asphalt and anisette aromas of Nebbiolo, and has absorbed its oak with greater success. Powerful and concentrated yet well balanced on the palate, its solid structure and firm texture are complemented by the velvet of the tactile sensations and the sweetness of the fruit. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2020. A Marc de Grazia Selection, various American importers, including Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300, Vin Divino, Chicago, IL; tel. (773) 334-6700, and Estate Wines, Ltd., San Rafael, CA; tel. (415) 492-9411