Wines Barolo Mauro Veglio - Rocche dell'Annunziata Riserva - 2019

Viniou Reviews

Mauro Veglio’s Barolo DOC “Cuvée Rocche dell’Annunziata Riserva” 2019 is a striking expression of Nebbiolo, Piemonte’s flagship red variety. This Riserva comes from the esteemed Rocche dell’Annunziata cru, known for its calcareous marl soils and excellent drainage, affording structure and aromatic complexity. The 2019 vintage was characterised by a mild spring and a warm summer, resulting in ripe tannins and well-developed fruit while preserving freshness. Aging in large Slavonian oak barrels accentuates its finesse and allows the pure, floral notes of Nebbiolo to shine. In the glass, expect a transparent garnet hue, with a nose of rose petals, violet, Morello cherry, wild strawberry, tar, sweet spices and an earthy undertone. The palate is full-bodied and elegant, with persistent tannins, vibrant acidity, and a lingering mineral finish that signals excellent cellaring potential.

The Barolo region, nestled in the rolling Langhe hills of Piedmont, enjoys a continental climate: hot summers and foggy autumns crucial for Nebbiolo’s ripening and aromatic intensification. The unique terroir, a mosaic of marl and limestone with some sandstone, provides Barolo with its trademark mix of power and refinement. With a winemaking legacy dating from Roman times and protected under DOCG status, Barolo has long been celebrated as the “King of Wines and the Wine of Kings,” treasured for its ability to age gracefully over decades.

This Barolo Riserva matches beautifully with red meat dishes, especially braised beef or veal cheek in Barolo sauce, rich game such as wild boar ragù, and truffle-infused risottos or tajarin pasta, a regional speciality. For a local pairing, consider brasato al Barolo or agnolotti del plin with a butter-sage sauce. A well-aged cheese such as Castelmagno or Parmigiano Reggiano also highlights the wine’s depth.

Serve slightly below room temperature, ideally at 16-18°C, and decant for at least an hour to allow its aromatics to unfold. This elegant Barolo will reward patient drinkers over many years, but already displays a harmonious balance of fruit, tannin, and savoury complexity.