This is a spectacular Barbaresco. It is awesomely thick, rich, and textured, with unreal opulence as well as glycerin levels that define the finest offerings from the 1997 vintage. Albino Rocca hit the bull's eye in 1997. Awesome, the 1997 Barbaresco Vigneto Brich Ronchi is a tour de force in winemaking. Its dark plum/ruby color is accompanied by explosive blackberry/cherry fruit aromas. In the mouth, its viscous texture, low acidity, and overripe Nebbiolo characteristics provide remarkable intensity, and extraordinary flavor richness with notes of blackberries, cherries, coffee, smoke, licorice, and earth. The finish lasts for nearly 45 seconds. Drink this spectacular Barbaresco over the next 7-8 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

Dark brick red. Full-bodied, soft and velvety, with lots of ripe fruit, meat and chocolate character. Just right.--1997 Italian blind retrospective. Drink now through 2014. 1,580 cases made.??–JS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barbaresco Select to Add