The 1998 Barolo Rocche dell'Annunziata will be an undeniable show-stopper. An exquisite combination of black fruits, coffee, smoke, new oak, licorice, and incense is found in this medium to full-bodied, ripe, elegant, pure Barolo. Explosive aromatics are followed by equally riveting flavors as well as a 50-second finish. The tannin is sweet and beautifully integrated. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2018.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

The 1998 Barolo Riserva Rocche dell’Annunziata is the best of the series, very complete in its presentation of the classic range of anisette, rose petal, iris, and red fruit sensations, ample, round, and fresh in flavor, minty and lingering on the close, caressing but solid in texture. It will last another dozen years. 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

Plum and dried flowers on the nose and palate. Full-bodied, with soft tannins and lots of ripe fruit and fresh herbs. Long, long finish that turns to rose petals. Pretty and complex. Still too young.--1998 Piedmont blind retrospective (2008). Best after 2010. 250 cases made, 110 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barolo Select to Add