Bruno Giacosa Barolo Rocche del Falletto Riserva 2011 750ml

Wine Advocate #231, Jul 1, 2017, by Monica Larner
The wine successfully, and somewhat magically, turns the tables on the overdone exuberance of the warm vintage and the natural heft that is inherent to Serralunga d'Alba. It does a great job of reining in all that power and transforming it into streamlined elegance instead. The wine opens to a dark and penetrating color and an immediately expressive bouquet. Thick layers of dark fruit, iron-rich earth, balsam herb, Darjeeling tea, dried ginger and cherry cola rise from the bouquet. The wine's Falletto signature is very strong. This is a Grande Vino with the proverbial capital G and capital V.

The knowledge, passion and wisdom that Bruno Giacosa brings to his work as producer of fine wines is the fruit of the dedication of three generations of wine makers. The family interest in vine cultivation began during the constant search for the best vineyards from which to buy the grapes necessary for wine making. The next step, naturally, was to acquire some of the same vineyards for the family business and the one after that, to specialise in the Nebbiolo grape and the grand wines made from it. That Bruno Giacosa is a perfectionist is obvious from the meticulousness with which he applies his craft.
Over decades Giacosa's reputation for perfectionism became continuously reaffirmed and the wines "stylistically consistent and painstakingly crafted". Known for his exacting standards, Giacosa will not bottle any wine if the vintage does not meet his scrutinous quality standards, and the vintage will be sold off in bulk as wine that is termed sfuso. Decanter estimates Bruno Giacosa among Italy's First Growths
Bruno Giacosa suffered a stroke in January 2006 which left him unable to work at the winery though he since made a full recovery. Gradually, Giacosa's daughter Bruna Giacosa, has taken over an increased leadership role of the firm.

Meats, Lamb