2017 Aurelio Settimo, Barolo Rocche dell'Annunziata

Last year, the 2016 Aurelio Settimo Barolo Rocche dell'Annunziata handily took our #1 Wine Of The Year.

We just tasted the 2017. Settimo's Rocche dell'Annunziata, a site-specific Barolo, delivers another hit!

The clay influence of the Annunziata cru is captivating, throwing off stunning truffle and terracotta notes.

Aromas of roses, tar, cedar, plum, and freshly picked strawberries. It’s full-bodied with layers of fruit and ripe tannins. Sweet and succulent, it has a silky stewed cherry texture - almost creamy. A wonderful push of acidity and fine tannins provide great structure. A gorgeous dusty texture is juxtaposed with the fruit. Add white truffle, terracotta, dried cherries and spices, and you will understand why Annunziata Baroli are in such demand.

What Struck Us Most About This Barolo

In the hamlet of La Morra, Barolo, the hillside cru known as Rocche dell'Annunziata has earned Grand Cru status (ala Burgundy) among producers.

Like Burgundy, it is a limited and coveted parcel where producers pay top dollar to own just a tiny row of vines. Baroli at much higher price points do not command the depth and nuance of this site-specific Nebbiolo.

It is creamy, textured, and gorgeously balanced. It has a Burgundian flair while retaining its Piedmont charm. Wine Spectator has recently written, "the vineyard is known for refined and beautifully structured wines made by an A-list of producers." Iconic producer Paolo Scavino, for example, makes a Rocche dell'Annunziata Barolo - a fantastic wine at $250 per bottle.

Aurielo Settimo's Barolo Rocche dell'Annunziata is right there in quality!

Decant for an hour if you'd like to enjoy it now (which you should) and cellar for up to another 20 years.

Cheers!