Bricco Rocche Prapò (1988)

About this wine

The 1988 Ceretto Bricco Rocche Prapò Barolo offers a captivating bouquet of dried cherries, forest floor, and hints of licorice. On the palate, it presents a harmonious blend of red fruit flavors, earthy undertones, and a touch of spice, supported by well-integrated tannins. This wine has aged gracefully, showcasing the elegance and depth characteristic of Barolo from the esteemed Prapò vineyard. The 1988 vintage was noted for its favorable conditions, contributing to the wine's balanced structure and longevity. Ceretto's dedication to highlighting the unique terroir of their vineyards is evident in this exceptional expression of Nebbiolo.

About the grape

Nebbiolo, the sole grape used in Barolo wines, has a history in the Piedmont region dating back to at least the 13th century. Its name likely comes from 'nebbia,' the Italian word for fog, reflecting the misty conditions during its late October harvest. In the mid-19th century, French oenologist Louis Oudart collaborated with local producers to refine Nebbiolo winemaking techniques, leading to the creation of the modern dry Barolo. This innovation elevated Barolo's status, earning it the title 'the king of wines' and solidifying its place in Italy's winemaking heritage.

Quick facts

• 📏 The Bricco Rocche vineyard, owned exclusively by the Ceretto family, is the smallest Menzione Geografica Aggiuntiva (MGA) in the Barolo region, covering just over 1 hectare.
• 🍷 The 1988 vintage of Ceretto's Bricco Rocche Prapò Barolo is highly regarded, with a critic score of 93 out of 100.
• 🏛️ The Bricco Rocche winery, established in 1982, features a modern glass cube structure added in 2000, symbolizing the fusion of tradition and innovation in winemaking.
• 🌞 The 1988 vintage in Piedmont was considered very good, contributing to the exceptional quality of wines like the Bricco Rocche Prapò Barolo.
• 🌱 The Ceretto family has been a pioneer in producing single-vineyard Barolo wines, emphasizing the unique characteristics of each vineyard.

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.