Rocche dell'Annunziata (1998)

About this wine

This 1998 Barolo from Rocche Costamagna offers a captivating bouquet of dried roses, tar, and subtle earthy notes. On the palate, it presents a harmonious blend of ripe red cherries, licorice, and a hint of truffle, reflecting the wine's maturity. The tannins have softened over time, providing a smooth texture, while the acidity remains vibrant, ensuring a lingering finish. Sourced from the esteemed Rocche dell'Annunziata vineyard in La Morra, this wine exemplifies the region's ability to produce Barolos that are both powerful and elegant. The 1998 vintage, known for its balanced growing season, has allowed this wine to age gracefully, offering a delightful experience for enthusiasts of aged Italian reds.

About the grape

Nebbiolo is a red grape variety native to Italy's Piedmont region, particularly renowned in areas like La Morra. Its name is believed to derive from 'nebbia,' meaning 'fog,' possibly due to the intense fogs common during its late October harvest or the fog-like appearance of the grape's bloom. Nebbiolo is known for its high acidity and tannins, which contribute to the wine's longevity and complexity. In La Morra, the calcareous marl soils and favorable climate provide an ideal environment for cultivating Nebbiolo, leading to wines that are both aromatic and structured.

Quick facts

• 🍇 Rocche dell'Annunziata is a renowned vineyard in La Morra, Italy, known for producing exceptional Barolo wines from the Nebbiolo grape.
• 🍷 The 1998 vintage of Rocche Costamagna's Barolo from Rocche dell'Annunziata is celebrated for its elegance and complexity, reflecting the unique terroir of La Morra.
• 🌹 Barolo wines, including those from Rocche dell'Annunziata, are often described as having aromas of tar and roses, with a notable ability to age gracefully over decades.
• 🏞️ The Rocche dell'Annunziata vineyard is situated on calcareous marl soils, contributing to the wine's softer tannins and more aromatic profile compared to other Barolo regions.
• 👑 Barolo is often referred to as 'the wine of kings, the king of wines,' highlighting its esteemed status among Italian wines.

Palate profile

Producer

Rocche Costamagna, established in 1841 in La Morra, Italy, has a rich history spanning over 180 years. The winery's legacy began when Luigi Costamagna received official permission to sell wine produced from his own vineyards. In 1911, Francesco Costamagna and his son Riccardo were awarded a gold medal at the International Exhibition in Turin for fifty years of winemaking. After a period of reduced activity, the family revitalized the winery in the late 1960s, planting new vineyards and modernizing the facilities. Today, under the leadership of Alessandro Locatelli, the estate covers 14 hectares, including the prestigious Rocche dell'Annunziata vineyard, and produces up to 85,000 bottles annually.