Who makes it?

Bruno Rocca is the current custodian of the Rocca family business. He made the decision in the 1970s to sell his own wine, rather than just being a grape seller. Currà is the name of the vineyards these particular Nebbiolo grapes are grown. It is a ‘cru’ vineyard purchased 20 years ago for its high quality Barbaresco DOCG potential.

Another vineyard, Rabajà, is also one of Barbaresco’s ‘cru’ vineyards. It was one of the family’s original vineyards. Barbaresco is a Piemonte region that is sometimes considered ‘second’ to Barolo. Interestingly, both these regions are Nebbiolo only. Barbaresco ripens slightly earlier due to the influence of the River Tanaro, it doesn’t tend to have quite the intense tannin structure that Barolo has. 

Furthermore, this family follows organic principles for their vineyards.

How they make it

Being a ‘cru’ vineyard, the vines in this vineyard have an average age of 50-60 years old. Thus, these old vines give this wine suppleness and concentration. 

The regulations for the Barbaresco region are for less time in oak unlike those of the close neighbour Barolo. The hand harvested Nebbiolo grapes are fermented and then aged in French oak for 12 months, whereas a Barolo would spend 18 months in oak.

What does it taste like?

A rich blend of raspberry jam, pepper, earth and cinnamon wafts from the glass. The fuller body is enhanced by silky tannins. The length is elongated further to a peppery finish. This is a shapely wine with layers of complexity. It goes without saying, it will further develop in the future though, so don’t be in too much of a hurry to drink it yet.

What to drink with it?

Typical red meat – beef, venison, game, game such including rabbit mixed through pasta. A meaty pizza, of course!. As well as, anything with a truffle sauce.

Cheese

Aged cheese such those from nearby regions of Parmigiano Reggiano, Pecorino, or blue cheese. Similarly, cheeses with truffles added are also an excellent choice.

Quickie review « A delicious peppery & spicy one! »

Country of Origin: Barbaresco, Italy
Tasting Date: October 2021
Price:  UK £ | €  |USD$ ++ 
Drink: now 
Needs food: no
Source: tasting

If you like Italian red wines, why not check out:
Firriato Le Sabbie dell’Etna Rosso

Visit brunorocca.it for more.