Bricco Rocche Prapò (1989)

About this wine

The 1989 Ceretto Bricco Rocche Prapò Barolo presents a deep garnet color with subtle orange hues, characteristic of aged Nebbiolo. On the nose, it offers an intricate bouquet of dried roses, tar, and earthy notes, reflecting its maturity. The palate reveals flavors of ripe red cherries, leather, and a hint of licorice, supported by well-integrated tannins that have softened over time. This wine originates from the Prapò vineyard in Serralunga d'Alba, known for producing robust and long-lived Barolos. The 1989 vintage is celebrated as one of the finest in Piedmont, contributing to the wine's exceptional depth and complexity.

About the grape

Nebbiolo, the sole grape in the 1989 Ceretto Bricco Rocche Prapò, is a historic variety from Italy's Piedmont region, first documented in the 13th century. Its name likely comes from 'nebbia,' meaning 'fog,' referencing the misty conditions during its late October harvest. Nebbiolo is known for its high tannins and acidity, requiring careful cultivation and extended aging to develop its full character. In Barolo, where this wine originates, Nebbiolo thrives in calcareous marl soils, contributing to the grape's distinctive qualities.

Quick facts

• 🍷 The 1989 vintage of Ceretto's Bricco Rocche Prapò Barolo is renowned for its exceptional quality, with critics awarding it high scores, reflecting its outstanding character.
• 🏛️ Ceretto's Bricco Rocche winery, established in 1982, features a striking glass cube structure added in 2000, symbolizing the fusion of modern design with traditional winemaking.
• 🌄 The Prapò vineyard, located in Serralunga d'Alba, is known for producing Barolos with robust tannins and deep flavors, characteristic of the region's terroir.
• 🍇 Barolo wines, including the 1989 Ceretto Bricco Rocche Prapò, are made exclusively from the Nebbiolo grape, celebrated for its complex aromas and aging potential.
• 🌟 The 1989 vintage in Piedmont is considered legendary, contributing to the exceptional quality and longevity of wines like the Ceretto Bricco Rocche Prapò Barolo.

Palate profile

Producer

Founded in the 1930s by Riccardo Ceretto in Alba, Italy, the Ceretto winery initially produced wines from purchased grapes. In the 1960s, his sons, Bruno and Marcello, revolutionized the business by acquiring vineyards in prestigious areas like Barolo and Barbaresco, emphasizing the importance of terroir. The third generation, including Alessandro Ceretto, joined in 1999, steering the winery towards organic and biodynamic practices, achieving organic certification in 2015. Beyond winemaking, Ceretto has integrated art and architecture into their estates, featuring installations like the colorful Barolo Chapel and the futuristic 'Grape' tasting room.