Wines Barolo Bruno Giacosa - Le Rocche di Castiglione Falletto - 2005

Viniou Reviews

Bruno Giacosa’s Barolo “Le Rocche di Castiglione Falletto” 2005 is a stunning expression of Nebbiolo, the celebrated grape of the region. Crafted from vineyards perched on the prized Rocche di Castiglione cru, this wine showcases the finesse and complexity for which Giacosa is renowned. The 2005 vintage benefited from a mild winter followed by a warm, dry growing season, resulting in grapes of impressive ripeness and structure. After hand-harvesting, the wine undergoes traditional vinification with extended maceration and maturation in large Slavonian oak casks, which allows the pure character of the fruit and terroir to shine through. In the glass, anticipate a wine of deep garnet hue, with haunting aromas of wild roses, tar, red cherry, dried violets, truffle and subtle nuances of spice and leather. The palate is elegant yet intense, with silky tannins and a lingering finish that speaks to its remarkable pedigree.

Barolo hails from the Langhe hills in southern Piemonte, an area blessed with a unique mix of clay and limestone soils that imbue the wines with both power and aromatics. The region’s continental climate, with hot summers and cold, misty autumns, encourages Nebbiolo’s slow and complete ripening, lending a rare combination of richness and finesse. Given official DOCG status in 1980, Barolo is often called “the king of wines and the wine of kings”, a testament to its history and prestige. Giacosa’s meticulous attention to site expression has played a pivotal role in celebrating the singular qualities of Castiglione Falletto.

Such a noble wine deserves equally refined cuisine. This Barolo will elevate traditional Piedmontese dishes such as brasato al Barolo (beef braised in Barolo), tajarin pasta with wild mushroom or truffle, or agnolotti del plin. It also pairs beautifully with slow-cooked lamb, game, and mature cheeses like Castelmagno. Decant the wine an hour before serving, allowing its bouquet to develop fully. Serve at 17-18°C, and savour each glass as it evolves in the decanter and in your glass. This 2005 is entering a wonderful phase, but will continue to evolve gracefully for years to come.