Wine Advocate: 94 pts
The classic Bruno Rocca 2017 Barbaresco surprisingly reveals cool-vintage aromas from what was in fact a warm growing season. When given ample time to open, this pretty Nebbiolo offers a long list of aromatic characteristics, starting off with a dusty note of white calcium that spans out to broad aromas of purple fruits and spice. However, that delicate mineral note is the wine's distinguishing factor, and it adds grace and enormous elegance to the finished results. You usually don't get this level of detail or finesse in the hot years, but this wine pulls it off without a hitch.
James Suckling: 93 pts
A red with lots of ripe berries and round tannins that give the wine richness and softness. Typical for the hot 2017 vintage with lots of generous fruit and ripe tannins, but not overdone. Drinkable now, but better after 2022.
Vinous: 91 pts
The 2017 Barbaresco is the only Barbaresco from Rocca in this vintage, as hail wiped out large portions of Rabajà and Currà (which are normally vineyard designates at this address) along with Fausoni, Marcorino and San Cristoforo (which go into the straight bottling). Bright red cherry fruit, mint, chalk, white pepper and citrus give the 2017 a very distinctive upper register to match its slightly nervous personality. Despite all the challenges of the year, the 2017 is very attractive. I would prefer to drink it over the next 10-15 years, once the tannins soften a touch.