Albino Rocca Barbaresco Ovello Vigna Loreto 2018

Barbaresco’s Ovello Cru spans a ridge with both slopes of the crest planted to vines. Within this large Cru there are several delimited parcels (historical plots if you like), of which Rocca’s Vigna Loreto is one. It’s a tiny plot that is effectively a monopole. Vines here are around 45 years old and the fruit was first vinified as a separate bottling in 1990. Sitting on the sunnier, southwestern side of the ridge, these vines directly face the moderating influence of the Tanaro River, so the nights are much cooler than on the other side of the Cru. The clay and limestone soils are also sandier and lighter than the rest of Ovello, giving the wines produced here far more finesse. On the other hand, vines from Loreto must be cropped at 10 hl/ha less than other Ovello vines if the wine is to be bottled under the Loreto parcel name, so the Rocca wine balances its finesse with some real density.

“The 2018 Barbaresco Ovello Vigna Loreto marries depth, energy and the pedigree of this site. There is real intensity here. Firm Ovello tannins wrap around sweet red cherry, leather, spice, menthol and licorice. Bright saline notes and piercing young Nebbiolo tannins extend the finish effortlessly. This is a super-classic expression of Ovello.” 94 points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous

“Enticing scents of camphor, blue flowers and wild berries come to the forefront along with spicy notes. Elegantly structured and vibrant, the savory, linear palate features ripe strawberry, cranberry and licorice framed in lithe, taut tannins. Bright acidity keeps it balanced.” 94 points, Kerin O Keefe, Wine Enthusiast