1970s Robba Carciofo - 18%
I couldn't dig up much on the producer Robba Rocco. The company was based in Canelli, a comune of 10,459 inhabitants in the Province of Asti in the Italian region of Piedmont. Most of the bottles that turn up were 60s-70s production - lots of vermouth, vino amaro, and imported blend scotch (entry level).
Vino amaro aren't as prevalent these days. There's an economic advantage or two to using neutral grain spirit. The vintage versions I've tried have often shown their base with heavy raisin/tobacco notes from decades of bottle maturation.
Notes: Nose is full of dried fruit - raisins, dates, currants. Wet soil. Sauteed artichoke. Faint metallic notes that sometimes occur with OBE (old bottle effect). Structure provides a strong swell with good acidity from the wine. Medium weight. Lean finish. Palate is big on dates, figs, and raisins upfront working toward slightly under ripe plum and tart berry, some pleasant root-y bitterness grounds everything. Slight tinge of metallic notes return in the finish.
Pour This For: Fans of fortified wines will enjoy this. Certainly not as sweet.
Score: 5 (Acceptable) Deduction here due to the occasional, faint metallic notes and a profile that's gone slightly out of balance due to oxidation. Works well for cocktailing in moderation, blended with contemporary amari or sweet vermouth to add some age and depth. Profile is a bit heavy handed when left to its own devices and needs a light touch in mixing.
Rating System
10 - Reevaluate The Budget
9 - Stash Two (If Able)
8 - Stash One (At The Right Price)
7 - Highly Recommend It To Strangers
6 - Solid - Above Average
5 - Acceptable For The Situation
4 - Not Vocally Complaining
3 - Anything Else To Drink?
2 - Nothing Nice To Say
1 - Drain Pour