“La Ca Nova remains one of the true undiscovered jewels of Barbaresco. Marco Rocca crafts intense, classically proportioned Barbarescos full of personality.” Antonio Galloni

Marco’s vineyards are located in the commune of Barbaresco and include the prestigious crus of Monetefico and Montestefano, two of the best sites that are often referred to as being ‘baroloesque’ owing to their backbone and ageing capability. Located on the Eastern side of the commune and separated by a few hundred metres, Montestefano is a few hundred metres south of Montefico and was the first to be bottled as a single vineyard wine, by the legendary Beppe Colla (of Poderi Colla) in 1961.

Textbook Barbaresco of finesse, vibrant red fruits, spice, dried herb and floral appeal. It’s tight and ‘mineral’ with a stony feel, a little almond and new leather, freshness, and excellent length. Needs a little time to relax, but it’s a lucid and expressive beauty that gets you involved from the get go. And a dead set bargain, all things considered. Tasted: Sept 20; Alcohol: 14.5%; Price: $83; Closure: Cork; Drink: 2022-2030+; Rated: 95 Points; Gary Walsh; The Wine Front