| 2008-07-29 17:32 |
WA: 2004 Oberto Barolo Rocche—The 2004 Rocche is fresher than the 2003, with a perfumed, spiced nose, and layers of dark red fruit that open with notable grace, elegance and balance. I had a slight preference for the 2003, probably because that wine is easier to understand today, but this 2004 offers much potential over the long haul. (89-92), 11/05
Beginning with the 2003 vintage, the Oberto Barolos see less time in barrique, and that is a decision that has already begun to pay off with the potentially outstanding 2003 Rocche. The biggest news at this estate is the acquisition of a parcel in the prestigious Brunate cru. Oberto has vinified the Brunate fruit separately in 2003 but is understandably wary of releasing his first wine from an important site in such a challenging vintage, so we may have to wait until the 2004 vintage to see an Oberto Brunate bottling, but I did taste the 2003 and it is a promising wine. |