A Giacosa Question

WINE TALK
1

Do they bottle Rocche as a Riserva (red label) and non- Riserva (white label) in the same vintage? Thanks.

2

Not so far. Probably never.

3

Thanks, Ken.

4

Ken,

As has been discussed here, in 1999 Bruno decided not to make a riserva, despite the quality of the fruit in Le Rocche probably being up to it. Is there any other year that this is known to have happened?

The '99 Le Rocche white label is a lovely wine.

Ben

5

It’s hard to say because in the end it is an opinion whether the wine is up to Riserva quality. Also, most of us don’t get to taste it is when that decision is being made. I think the 1998 Rocche is a terrific wine for a white label. Since then, only 2003, 2005, and 2009 Rocches have been white labels. I don’t think any of those are red label quality, but you never know down the road . . . The 05 might surprise people. Well, not me. I bought 18 bottles just to be safe. :wink:

6

There is a 1996 white label and red label riserva from RdF.

7

No there is not. Those are both just Falletto, though the Riserva is from the Rocche subplot, it is only labeled Falletto.

8

Ah, ok. That’s right.

9

Here’s a handy chart:

http://www.finewinegeek.com/giacosa/barolo/

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