The 2000 Barolo Rocche has fared better than the Brunate, but it is a far cry from some of the truly legendary Rocches I have tasted here and elsewhere. The 2000 is rather burly Rocche, with little of the finesse that is this wine’s calling card. Sweet mint and floral notes add freshness on the finish. Though not especially vibrant, the 2000 Rocche should last another decade or so on the strength of its fruit. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2020. Long-time readers know the late 1990s and early 2000s were a period of transition at Vietti. It was a time of experimentation with winemaking that led to the growth that now informs the spectacular wines of more recent vintages.Importer: Dalla Terra, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 259-5405

The 2000 Barolo Rocche has fared better than the Brunate, but it is a far cry from some of the truly legendary Rocches I have tasted here and elsewhere. The 2000 is rather burly Rocche, with little of the finesse that is this wine’s calling card. Sweet mint and floral notes add freshness on the finish. Though not especially vibrant, the 2000 Rocche should last another decade or so on the strength of its fruit. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2020. Long-time readers know the late 1990s and early 2000s were a period of transition at Vietti. It was a time of experimentation with winemaking that led to the growth that now informs the spectacular wines of more recent vintages. Importer: Dalla Terra, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 259-5405

Silky and seductive, with roses, berries and raspberries. Full bodied, with wonderfully integrated tannins. Great length. A super wine. Like sleeping in silk sheets. From the Rocche di Castiglione vineyard in Castiglione Falletto. Best after 2010. 200 cases made, 75 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barolo Select to Add

This is not an in-your-face-wine. Instead it is reserved and refined yet coquettish enough to dabble out enticing traces of candied cherry, pine resin, cigar box, forest truffles and dried mint leaves. The tannins are round and full, with a touch of perky spice. ——M.L.(11/15/2006)—— 91