Barolo Rocche Costamagna (1998)

About this wine

The 1998 Barolo Rocche Costamagna presents a deep garnet hue, indicative of its maturity. On the nose, it reveals an intricate bouquet of dried cherries, leather, and hints of tobacco, reflecting the evolution of Nebbiolo over time. The palate is greeted with flavors of ripe red fruits, complemented by earthy undertones and a touch of spice. The tannins have softened gracefully, providing a smooth and balanced mouthfeel. This vintage showcases the elegance and depth characteristic of well-aged Barolo, offering a lingering finish that invites further contemplation.

About the grape

Nebbiolo, the sole grape in the 1998 Rocche Costamagna Barolo, is renowned for its late ripening, often harvested in October when Piedmont's vineyards are enveloped in fog, which is reflected in its name derived from 'nebbia,' meaning 'fog' in Italian. This grape is known for its high tannins and acidity, requiring careful cultivation and extended aging to develop its full potential. Historically, Nebbiolo has been cultivated in the Barolo region for centuries, with records dating back to the 13th century, and it has been associated with producing wines of exceptional quality and longevity. The 1998 vintage, in particular, benefited from favorable weather conditions, allowing the Nebbiolo grapes to achieve optimal ripeness, contributing to the wine's complexity and aging potential.

Quick facts

• 🍇 The 1998 Barolo Rocche Costamagna is crafted exclusively from Nebbiolo grapes, renowned for producing wines with complex aromas and significant aging potential.
• 🏞️ This wine originates from the Rocche dell'Annunziata vineyard in La Morra, a prestigious cru known for its calcareous and clay soils that impart unique characteristics to the wine.
• 🛢️ The 1998 vintage underwent traditional vinification, including a maceration period of about two weeks, followed by aging for 24 months in large Slavonian oak barrels, enhancing its elegance and depth.
• 🏰 Rocche Costamagna, the producer, has a winemaking history dating back to 1841, reflecting a long-standing tradition of quality and craftsmanship.
• 🍷 The 1998 Barolo Rocche Costamagna is noted for its harmonious balance of fruit and spice aromas, with a smooth palate and refined tannins, making it a classic representation of Barolo from La Morra.

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.