Rocche dell'Annunziata

Rocche dell'Annunziata carries one of the longest documented histories of any Barolo MGA. The vineyard falls within the territory once known as Marcenasco, recorded in 1194 as property of the Benedictine Abbey of San Martino in La Morra. That ecclesiastical heritage points to how highly these hillside soils were regarded even in medieval times. The name 'Rocche' references the crushed stone fragments scattered throughout the vineyard, a defining physical trait that also aids water drainage and root penetration. The site has grown considerably in recent decades, yet its reputation as a benchmark La Morra cru remains firmly intact.

• Documented in written records as far back as 1194
• Originally part of the Marcenasco territory under Benedictine ownership
• Name 'Rocche' directly references the crushed stone fragments in the soil
• Has expanded significantly in recent decades while maintaining its prestige

Rocche dell'Annunziata sits in La Morra, the largest commune in the Barolo zone by vineyard area, positioned in the northwestern portion of the appellation. The MGA benefits from a continental climate tempered by cool air currents from tributaries of the Tanaro River. Elevations between 236 and 280 meters bring cooler growing conditions than many neighboring sites, which extends the ripening season for Nebbiolo and contributes to the vineyard's signature aromatic intensity. The varied aspects, including south-east, south-west, and north-east exposures, mean different parcels within the MGA receive differing amounts of sun, adding complexity to the wines produced here.

• Located in La Morra, the largest Barolo commune by vineyard area
• Continental climate moderated by Tanaro river tributary breezes
• Multiple aspects (SE, SW, NE) create diverse growing conditions within the MGA
• Higher elevation extends the ripening period, building aromatic complexity

The soils of Rocche dell'Annunziata belong to the Sant'Agata Fossil Marl formation, laid down during the Tortonian epoch of the Miocene period. This clay-rich calcareous marl carries significant quantities of iron and manganese alongside limestone, sand, and silt. The Tortonian-age soils of La Morra are generally younger and more fertile than the Helvetian-age soils found in Serralunga d'Alba, and this distinction is central to understanding why La Morra Barolos, including Rocche dell'Annunziata, tend toward earlier accessibility and more pronounced perfume. The crushed stone fragments distributed throughout the vineyard improve drainage and force vine roots deeper, concentrating flavor while preventing waterlogging.

• Sant'Agata Fossil Marl of Tortonian (Miocene) age
• Clay-rich with calcareous marl, iron, manganese, limestone, sand, and silt
• Crushed stone fragments improve drainage and give the vineyard its name
• Tortonian soils produce more approachable Barolo than the older Helvetian soils of Serralunga

Barolo from Rocche dell'Annunziata expresses the classic La Morra profile: elegant, perfumed, and relatively approachable compared to the more austere wines from the eastern communes. The clay-rich soils deliver concentrated fruit alongside soft, well-integrated tannins, while the cooler elevation preserves freshness and aromatic lift. Expect pronounced floral notes, red and dark fruit, and mineral undertones from the fossil marl. The structure is present but supple, making these wines more accessible in youth than those from Serralunga d'Alba or Castiglione Falletto, though they reward extended cellaring just as generously. Notable producers working this MGA include Trediberri, Renato Ratti, Rocche Costamagna, Mauro Veglio, and Francesco Rinaldi.

• Elegant and perfumed with concentrated red and dark fruit
• Soft, well-integrated tannins, more accessible than eastern commune Barolos
• Mineral undertones from fossil marl soils
• Floral aromatics, particularly violet and rose, are hallmarks of the style