2016 Le Piane Boca DOC

Christophe Künzli is now one of the old guard in Alto Piemonte. He was among the first producers in current times to recognize the value of these abandoned vineyards and to start making wines that expressed that potential. The range has expanded in recent years, but the Boca remains the flagship wine. It is one of the greatest examples of the appellation and belongs in any well-stocked cellar. It is also one of my personal favorites.

95+ points, Antonio Galoni, Vinous - The 2016 Boca is every bit as impressive as it was from barrel but it needs time. The only question is how mch. Effusive aromatics soar out of the glass, suggesting a feeling of openness that is not quite there on the palate, where the wine is decidedly austere. The 2016 is a classic Boca laced with expressive small red berry fruits, blood orange, mint and rose petal. It will be magnificnet once the tannins relent a bit. Don't miss it!

From the producer - "Consists of Nebbiolo (85%) and Vespolina grapes (15%). This wine requires full maturity and is treated in the barrel for 3 to 4 years, and can then be stored for decades. The mineral composition of the porphyritic soil together with the characteristic structures of the Nebbiolo grapes allow “Boca” to become a full, expressive wine. Its flavour reminds one of well-matured forest fruits, violets, tobacco and dried herbs with hints of balsam and citrus fruits.

Power and a silky elegance will develop in the mouth, fascinating and playful, with a slightly noble and bitter final note. The vast complexity of taste allows one to discover new facets over and over again. Our Boca can mature and refine in bottles for up to 10-20 years."