The 2011 Rosso di Rocca is an attractive, fresh red to drink over the next few years. A blend of 80% Nebbiolo, 10% Barbera and 10% Cabernet Franc, the Rosso di Rocca is one of the most stylish, racy Piedmont wines in its price range. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2014.
I was shocked and saddened to learn that proprietor Angelo Rocca recently passed away in a crash involving his own light airplane. I visited with Rocca in late August, just as the Moscato was coming in. Rocca embodied the spirit of the self-made Piemontese grower who took a sleepy family-run winery and turned it into a world-class estate in just one generation. He will be deeply missed.
A Marc de Grazia Selection, various American importers, including de Grazia Imports; tel. (417) 732-4200; Skurnik Wines, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300; Robert Houde Wines, Elk Grove Village, IL; tel. (847) 430-3887