The 2017 Ca' Rome Barolo Vigna Rapet is a Nebbiolo wine from the Piedmont region in Italy, specifically from the Barolo sub-region. This red wine, produced by Ca' Rome, is sealed with a cork and boasts an alcohol content of 15.5%. The Rapet vineyard, although not an official MGA designation, is situated in Serralunga d'Alba.
Vinous reviewer Antonio Galloni awarded this wine a score of 94, describing it as "bright, juicy and absolutely delicious." He noted its "open-knit style" and praised its "silky, impeccably balanced tannins," though he remarked that it is "not super complex." Galloni emphasized its "racy and dangerously delicious" character, a sentiment that highlights its immediate appeal.
James Suckling also provided a favorable review, giving the wine a score of 92. He described the wine as having "rather exotic aromas of cherry liqueur, turkish delight and fresh walnuts," with a palate featuring "very acute, spicy (almost salty) notes" that currently overshadow the fruit flavors. Suckling recommended giving the wine "plenty of time to even out," suggesting it would be best enjoyed after 2023.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, represented by reviewer Monica Larner, rated the wine at 91 points. Larner remarked on its "darkly concentrated and rich" profile, with notes of "black fruit, dried plum and dried blackberry." She acknowledged the wine's robustness, attributing it to the hot vintage, and mentioned its "generous bouquet" that includes "spice, dark tar and campfire ash." Larner pointed out that the wine shows "broad and horizontal characteristics" with "a little less depth as a result."
Wine Spectator's Bruce Sanderson also scored the wine at 92 points, highlighting its "steeped plum and fig flavors" complemented by "savory notes of eucalyptus, juniper, soy and tar." He described it as a "dense, meaty red" and noted that once its "ironclad tannins" soften, the fruit should become more prominent. Sanderson advised that the wine would be best enjoyed from 2025 through 2045.
In summary, the 2017 Ca' Rome Barolo Vigna Rapet is a robust and flavorful Nebbiolo with immediate appeal and potential for aging. The reviews highlight its complex bouquet and balanced tannins, making it a noteworthy choice for enthusiasts of Italian red wines.