The 2004 Barbaresco Bric Ronchi reveals a deep, dark color and a full-bodied, weighty expression of ripe fruit. Long and sweet on the palate, this fat, ripe Barbaresco offers outstanding length and plenty of style. It was aged 70% in French oak (80% new) and 30% cask. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2016. Rocca is among the producers who has been scaling back the use of small new oak barrels in favor of medium-sized 20 hectoliter casks. His wines today are less explosive, but far more elegant. 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

Has very focused, intense aromas of crushed blackberry, with freshly sliced mushroom. A full-bodied, massive wine, with supersilky tannins and a finish that lasts for minutes. Yet this is balanced and classy. Very impressive. Maybe another 2000. Best after 2012. 1,260 cases made, 800 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barbaresco Select to Add