About this wine
Vineyard and terroir
A single-site Barolo from Rocche dell’Annunziata in La Morra. A published note for the 2010 vintage refers to calcareous soil and describes the wine as a continuation of Giachini, or “Giachini-plus.”
Grapes
Nebbiolo.
Ageing
The 2001 vintage matured for 24 months in barriques. The 2010 was divided among four barriques, two new and two once-used; despite the new wood, its tasting note found the oak restrained. The 2015 release was exceptionally small, amounting to only two barrels.
Tasting profile
The 2001 showed bright ruby-red color and a rich, complex bouquet of blackberry, plum, pepper and vanilla. The palate was full, fresh and supported by noticeable yet agreeable tannins.
The 2000 was distinguished by elegance and finesse, combining soft but perceptible tannins with an exceptionally long finish. The 1999 joined red-fruit preserve and tobacco in a mature, broad and austere wine with substantial length.
The 2013 offered rose petals and citrus peel, a medium-bodied palate, firm yet silky tannins, a fresh finish and a delicate fruit aftertaste. The 2012 combined dried berries, flowers and citrus peel with a full, dense palate, firm velvety tannins and a long, flavorful finish. The 2011 was ripe and concentrated, with spice, truffle and berry notes, a full body, chewy tannins and an intense, persistent finish.
The 2010 showed strawberry and flowers, lively freshness and a persistent finish. A second published assessment described a deep red color; aromas of cherry, licorice, minerals and dried herbs; silky red-fruit intensity; fine tannins; and a long, juicy finish. The 2009 was full-bodied and deep, with wood and berry notes and very firm, chewy tannins.
The 2008 presented blueberry, milk chocolate and fresh-herb nuances, including lemongrass, followed by a full, silky palate, firm tannins and a medium finish. The 2007 was rich and flamboyant, with ripe strawberry, milk chocolate and dried mushroom, a full body, velvety tannins and a very long finish.
The 2015 was dark and powerful. The 2012 was also described as soft, gracious and floral, though marked by French oak and reduced persistence through the mid-palate. The 2011 combined red stone fruit, mint, spice and wildflowers with firm tannins and notable length.
Vintage notes
The published drinking guidance varies considerably by vintage. The 2013 was considered ready to drink, while the 2012 could be drunk or held. The 2011 and 2009 were expected to benefit from four to five years of additional time. The 2010 was recommended from 2017, the 2008 from 2013 and the 2007 from 2014.