2020 Rocca, Giovanni - Barolo Bricco Ravera di Monforte (750ml)
The 2020 Giovanni Rocca Barolo is sourced from a single elevated parcel within the Bricco Ravera site near Monforte d’Alba, where well-drained sandstone and calcareous marl layers force Nebbiolo roots deep while reflecting ambient heat down onto the canopy. This microclimate extends phenolic ripeness into late October, allowing the fruit to develop concentration without losing the natural malic acid that keeps Piedmont’s noble variety balanced.
When poured, the wine displays a translucent ruby-garnet hue that lightens toward the edge. The aromatic profile opens with crushed red berries, dried rose petals, and bright citrus zest, followed closely by damp earth, pine needle, and light toast as oxygen interacts with the surface. Fine, tightly woven tannins thread through a medium-bodied frame, carrying flavors of sour cherry, licorice root, and smoked papaya. The finish turns chalky and saline, lingering for sixty to ninety seconds with zero harshness. Because the 2020 growing season produced moderate yields and steady weather swings, the vintage leans toward approachability; releasing the bottle now with a thirty-minute pour delivers satisfying immediacy, while cellaring for three to five years will deepen the secondary garrigue and leather characteristics.
Suggested Food Pairings
- Fonduta al Tartufo (truffle-infused melted Fontina dip)
- Ossobuco alla milanese braised in white wine and vegetable soffritto
- Bucatini all'amatriciana with sharp Pecorino Romano
- Herb-roasted lamb chops with rosemary and garlic butter
- Aged Parmigiano Reggiano (36-month minimum) paired with walnuts