Vietti, Barolo, Rocche di Castiglione 2014

Vietti's 2014 Barolo Rocche di Castiglione is shaping up to be a modern-day classic. Piercing, intense and austere in the best sense of the word, the Rocche is a wine of laser-like focus that will leave Barolo lovers weak in the knees. Candied cherry, pomegranate, kirsch, rose petal and violet overtones give the 2014 its inner sweetness and captivating perfume. In a word: stunning. Don't miss it.

The 2004 Barolo Rocche has been breathtaking on the occasions I have tasted it. A deep, intense Barolo, it bursts forth with a compelling array of dark cherries, dried roses, menthol, minerals and spices in an explosive expression of ripe fruit laced with perfumed aromatics. This rich, vibrant Barolo grows in the glass, gaining volume, depth and persistence. Like Viettis’s other 2004s, the Rocche is a concentrated, structured wine that will require patience. I have been fortunate to taste many of Vietti’s legendary wines from the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s, but the 2004 Barolo Rocche is in a class of its own. It may turn out to be the finest wine made at this historic property. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2026.

Really shows what was possible in this difficult vintage! What a complex nose with hazelnuts, chocolate, flowers and herbs in profusion. Hints of licorice and candied citrus peel, too. Quite a major structure with bold, dry tannins, which are already very well-integrated. A really long finish. Better after 2020.