Based on cask tastings, I had higher hopes for the 1997 Barolo Vigna Rocche del Annunziata. While outstanding, my barrel tasting notes suggested it might turn out to be profound. It possesses an evolved dark plum/garnet color, more structure than its siblings, copious tobacco, herb, pepper, and kirsch liqueur aromas, super-richness, a sweet, full-bodied palate, but not the mass and overall structure I anticipated. Nevertheless, it is a stunning Barolo for drinking during its first 12-15 years of life. A Marc de Grazia Selection, various American importers, including Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300, Vin Divino, Chicago, IL; tel. (773) 334-6700, and Estate Wines, Ltd., San Rafael, CA; tel. (415) 492-9411

Dark ruby red. Extremely ripe fruit nose, with blackberry, mineral and tar. Full-bodied, with velvety, chewy tannins and a long, caressing finish. Loads of toasty oak. Rich. Evolving wonderfully.--1997 Italian blind retrospective. Drink now through 2015. 85 cases made.??–JS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barolo Select to Add