Aurelio Settimo Barolo Rocche dell'Annunziata 2019

Aurelio Settimo is a well-respected winery located in La Morra, a renowned village in the Barolo region of Piedmont, Italy. The estate has been in the Settimo family since the 1940s, with Aurelio Settimo taking over in the 1960s and focusing on producing traditional-style Barolo. The winery is now managed by Aurelio’s daughter, Tiziana Settimo, who continues to uphold the family’s commitment to quality and tradition. The estate's vineyards are located in the prestigious Rocche dell'Annunziata, a sub-zone known for producing some of the most elegant and complex Barolos.

The Rocche dell'Annunziata vineyard is characterized by its unique terroir, which includes calcareous clay soils and a favourable microclimate that contribute to the finesse and aromatic complexity of the wines. The vineyard sits at an altitude of about 270 meters, with south to southwest exposure, allowing for optimal sunlight and ripening of the Nebbiolo grapes. The winemaking process at Aurelio Settimo emphasizes traditional methods, including long maceration periods and aging in large oak barrels, resulting in Barolos that are expressive of their terroir and have excellent aging potential.

Appearance: The 2019 Aurelio Settimo Barolo Rocche dell'Annunziata has a deep garnet colour with a hint of ruby at the rim, indicative of its youthful vibrancy and potential for aging.

Aroma: On the nose, this Barolo offers an intricate bouquet of red cherries, dried roses, and hints of violet, complemented by notes of truffle, anise, and a subtle touch of tar, characteristic of Nebbiolo wines.

Taste: The palate is full-bodied and well-structured, with flavours of ripe red fruit, such as cherry and raspberry, intertwined with earthy undertones, liquorice, and a hint of tobacco. The tannins are firm yet finely integrated, providing a backbone for the wine’s complexity and depth.

Finish: The finish is long and elegant, with lingering notes of red fruit and a gentle minerality that echoes the wine's terroir. The wine’s vibrant acidity and tannic structure suggest great potential for further aging.

Pairing: This Barolo pairs beautifully with rich and savoury dishes such as braised Ox tail and wild fungi risotto, or aged cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano. Its complexity and depth also complement truffle-infused dishes, enhancing the earthy and aromatic elements of the wine.