2018 Aurelio Settimo, Barolo Rocche dell'Annunziata

Two years ago, the 2016 Aurelio Settimo Barolo Rocche dell'Annunziata handily took our #1 Wine Of The Year.   A great vintage, it put most other Barolos to shame, especially given its price.

Since then, the wine has had a permanent place on our shelves. 

The recently released 2018 Settimo's Rocche dell'Annunziata, a site-specific Barolo, delivers another hit!

From an elegant vintage, the clay influence of the Annunziata cru is captivating, throwing off stunning truffles 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.  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 We Love Most About Settimo's Barolo Annunziata

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!