In 2023, we enjoyed tasting many outstanding wines.  From the resurgence of Burgundy (coming off a few years of hail) to outstanding Bordeaux vintages (i.e., 2018 and 2019), the field was rich with a wide variety of wines for all types of enthusiasts.  

One wine is so compelling it was easy to make it our #1 Wine Of The Year.  You may recall, the normale 2016 Aurelio Settimo Barolo Rocche dell'Annunziata took our #1 Wine in 2021 putting most other Barolos to shame.

We patiently waited three years for Settimo's "Riserva" Barolo (Riserva Barolos, by law, must age for at least 5 years, including 18 months in oak before release). 

THE WAIT IS OVER - THE WINE IS STUNNING!

Settimo's Rocche dell'Annunziata is a site-specific Barolo that is approaching eight years of bottle age.  It resembles the normale, but has so much more personality due to its nearly eight years of age.  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.   

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 $300 per bottle.

Baroli at much higher price points do not command the depth and nuance of Settimo's site-specific Barolo.  It is creamy, textured, and gorgeously balanced.  

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

Cheers!