Albino Rocca Barbaresco Cotta 2018

This is just the third release of Rocca’s Barbaresco Cottà (from Neive), although Cottà was in fact one of the first sites in Barbaresco to be produced as a single vineyard. The Roccas work with a micro-parcel of 50-year-old vines sited in the middle of the southwest-facing slope, adjacent to their Gepin (Barbera) parcel, and directly facing the Ronchi vineyard. It is a tiny holding, producing no more than 2,000 bottles annually. The sand-rich, clay/marl soils and warmer microclimate produce generous yet fine wines that marry beautifully with Rocca’s elegant interpretation of Nebbiolo.

“Pouring from the bottle with a light ruby color, the Albino Rocca 2018 Barbaresco Cottà shows dried cherry, cassis and lots of blue flower or summer lavender. This is a classic and neatly contained expression of cool-vintage Nebbiolo. The bouquet is fluid but also compact, and you can look forward to an interesting aromatic evolution to come as this wine continues along its aging path.” 93+ points, Monica Larner, The Wine Advocate

“The 2018 Barbaresco Cottá shows the mid-palate pliancy and depth that is typical of this site, but in the gracious, understated style that defines the Rocca Barbarescos today, especially in this vintage. Succulent dark cherry, plum, spice and leather all flesh out in the glass. Give it a few years to soften.” 93 points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous