Albino Rocca Barbaresco Ronchi 2021
- ws94
- we91
Category | Red Wine |
Varietal | |
Brand | Albino Rocca |
Origin | Italy, Piedmont, Barbaresco |
Alcohol/vol | 14.5% |
Four generations of the Rocca family have been crafting exceptional wine in Barbaresco since the 1940's, when Giacomo Rocca began bottling his wine in demijohns. In the 1960's, his son, Albino, expanded the vineyard holdings of the family and founded the eponymous estate. His hard work, combined with that of his son, Angelo, grew Albino Rocca into an estate of international acclaim. Today, Albino Rocca is constantly searching for new ways to improve in the vineyard and the cellar, while also maintaining their deep roots of quality andd terroir expression of the region. The family has vines in some of the most prestigious Crus of Barbaresco: Ronchi, Ovello, Montersino and Cottà. The estate was awarded the "Green Experience", an accreditation that highlights natural agricultural techniques, conservation of the environment and encouragement of biodiversity. The estate uses no herbicides, pesticides or additives in the vineyard or the cellar.
The Vigna Ronchi is the flagship Cru of Albino Rocca. The winery is located right at the top of the vineyard; their holdings in this historic site make up the largest part of their estate. The soils consist of limestone and clay stratified with layers of tufo planted with Nebbiolo vines that are 50-70 years old. After traditional fermentation, the wine is aged for 20 months in large Austrian and German oak barrels. In the glass, the wine shows a striking mid-ruby in color with an orange rim. Beautiful aromas of rich, sweet red fruits dominate the nose with added notes of roses and fresh baked cherries. On the palate, the wine is concentrated and rich with layer after layer of complex flavors unfurling themselves, all underpinned by a flashy acidity and ripe, fine-grained tannins. The exquisite finish goes on for over a minute. Perhaps what's most impressive is the freshness and energy of the wine considering the heat of the 2017 vintage in Barbaresco. Elegant and balanced, Albino Rocca has crafted a superb Ronchi Cru Barbaresco. Drink now or cellar a further 10+ years.
Wine Spectator
- ws94
A supple, elegant red, boasting strawberry, cherry, rose and menthol flavors. Linear, with balance and a long, slightly austere finish. This opened after an hour and a half, so give it a few years in the bottle. Best from 2028 through 2045. 650 cases made, 300 cases imported.
Wine Enthusiast
- we91
This wine opens with aromas of dried herbs, preserved rosebuds and dehydrated raspberries.Tart red fruits lead the way on the palate as tts surprising roundness contrasts with its initial savory star Firm, like a sturdy oak frame, the wine supports the intricate flavors, as the blend of fruit and savory equally shine on the finish. - Jeff Porter