94pts James Suckling

I like the aromas of lavender and raspberry with hints of citrus rind. Full-bodied and ripe with hints of dried fruits and tree bark. Silky tannins. Slightly better than 2011. Fresh finish. Drink or hold.

92pts Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

Although the 2012 Barolo Coste di Rose appears slightly advanced in its evolution (compared to the estate's other 2012 Barolo wines), this wine offers more depth and feminine complexity. It holds its cards close to its chest. But once it starts to perform, it executes each move with careful precision and elegance. The bouquet is memorable thanks to rose hip, lavender and spice that find easy harmony. I would recommend a slightly shorter drinking window on this vintage, but the wine should show nicely for the next 10 to 15 years nonetheless.

Winery Notes

Coste di Rose is a prestigious hill with full eastern exposure located in the community of Barolo, just in front of the Bussia area of Monforte. Coste di Rose is characterized by a more then 40% slope, which allows perfect cluster maturation, which is extremely demanding in terms of light and heat. The hill is of the Helvetian geological age, but, curiously, the soil quality is moderately calcareous (this originated from the marine deposits uplift, which are still found through regular agricultural maintenance) and especially rich in quartzite sand, fine limestone and just a small amount of clay. These peculiar characteristics impart to the Nebbiolo vines an intense and fine aroma, that bring to mind hint of wild mint.

Barolo Coste di Rose matures 4 years after being harvested and reaches its peak condition between 4 and 20 years of age. Barolo Coste di Rose is ruby-red in color tending towards garnet. Its intense nose has distinct traces of roses, liquorice, spices and aromatic herbs, especially wild mint. The taste is full, elegant, and full-bodied. The delicate color of this wine and its structure make it a Barolo that is immediately pleasant, balanced and harmonious.