The 2017 Ca Rome Barolo Vigna Rapet is a remarkable wine that exudes elegance and complexity. With a deep red color that hints at its depth and intensity, this Nebbiolo-based wine from the Piedmont region of Italy showcases the best of the renowned Barolo sub-region.
On the nose, the wine presents rather exotic aromas of cherry liqueur, Turkish delight, and fresh walnuts. These initial scents give way to more acute and spicy notes on the palate, almost salty in nature, which add a layer of intrigue and complexity. The fruit flavors, although somewhat overshadowed by the spicy notes at the moment, promise to reveal themselves fully with time and patience. The wine is medium to full-bodied, with fine, firm tannins that provide structure and depth.
The 2017 Barolo Rapet is not only delightful but also dangerously delicious, as described by Antonio Galloni of Vinous. This vintage offers immediate enjoyment with its open-knit style, showcasing the fruit-forward characteristics of its Serralunga vineyard. Silky and impeccably balanced tannins further enhance the wine's allure, contributing to its overall charm.
Although the 2017 vintage may not be as complex as some other years, it compensates with its racy nature and undeniable appeal. Its dark concentration and richness are evident in the black fruit, dried plum, and dried blackberry flavors that dominate the palate. The wine also displays spicy nuances, dark tar, and campfire ash, adding depth and complexity to the overall tasting experience.
With a mighty alcohol content of 15.5%, this Barolo Rapet is robust and powerful, showcasing the characteristics of the hot vintage. It is recommended to give this wine plenty of time to even out and reach its full potential, with the best drinking window projected to be after 2023. However, for those who cannot resist its allure, it can be enjoyed now with pleasure, knowing that it will continue to evolve and improve over the years.
The 2017 Ca Rome Barolo Vigna Rapet is a wine that demands attention and respect. Its steeped plum and fig flavors, along with savory notes of eucalyptus, juniper, soy, and tar, create a dense and meaty profile. As the ironclad tannins soften over time, the fruit will take center stage, resulting in a fine, fresh, and long finish. This wine has the potential to age gracefully for decades, reaching its peak between 2025 and 2045.
In conclusion, the 2017 Ca Rome Barolo Vigna Rapet is a wine that embodies the essence of Barolo. It is a wine of depth, complexity, and elegance, with the potential to captivate and evolve over time. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for future enjoyment, this wine is a testament to the quality and character of Italian winemaking.