The Barbaresco Maria Adelaide is a recent addition to the line-up. It is made from a selection of the ripest fruit in all of Rocca’s various vineyards, so the exact source of the fruit in the wine is subject to variation from year to year. The 2001 is a deeply-colored effort, spiced and balsamic on the nose, with plenty of concentration in its sweet dark fruit and an ample, generous frame of notable length as well as balance. Perhaps I caught it at an awkward stage, but it does not appear to be especially typical of either Nebbiolo or Barbaresco, although it is unquestionably well-made and enjoyable. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2017. Importer: Blavod Extreme, Franklin, TN; tel. (615) 771-9111

Intense aromas of meat, fruit and smoke follow through to a full-bodied palate, with chewy tannins and a long, long finish. This is a rich, layered wine with loads going on. A new wine from Bruno Rocca produced from old vines in the Rabajà vineyard. Best after 2009. 250 cases made, 100 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barbaresco Select to Add