Massolino Barbaresco 2023

Massolino Barbaresco 2023

Massolino's Barbaresco "classico" is a blend of three parcels in Neive: Albesani, Serraboella and Starderi. Albesani is probably the best-known; Serraboella, which accounts for the lion's share of the blend, is one of the most highly regarded sites in the eastern sector of Neive, on the preferred southwest-facing hill over lighter soils; while Starderi, on the sunnier western side of Neive, brings power and flesh. Natural fermentation takes place in large wooden fermenters, and the wine is aged for 18 months in large, 5,000-litre Slavonian oak barrels.

I tasted this at the winery back in May, and just again at home, both times with charming winemaker Gio Angeli. This is a blend of vineyards from Neive – Albesani, Starderi and Serraboella. Red fruits, poached strawberry, aniseed, almond, a dried flower perfume of rose and chamomile. It’s medium-bodied, a freshness and juiciness to red fruit, fine-grained tannin, a bit of a stony feel to it, quite some mouth-perfume, closing with a little blood orange tang and good length. Very good. Touch and go for 94 really. Drinks pretty well now too, I’d suggest. 93+ Points - Gary Walsh, The Wine Front

“The 2023 Barbaresco is a blend of fruit from Albesani, Starderi and Serraboella, all co-fermented. Soft contours wrap around a core of red/purplish fruit, rose petal, blood orange, cinnamon and mint. This sensual, layered Barbaresco is inviting from the very first taste." 93 Points - Antonio Galloni, Vinous

Showing a spicy entry with aromas of licorice, dark tar and graphite, the Massolino 2023 Barbaresco evolves beautifully in the glass, revealing different layers of intensity with time. Sourced from the Serraboella, Albesani and Starderi MGAs in Neive and produced in 28,235 bottles, the wine gradually reveals ripe vine tomato, licorice and hints of exotic spice as it relaxes in the glass. The warm 2023 vintage pushes the boundaries of Nebbiolo's natural character, emphasizing generous fruit without sacrificing varietal identity. 92 Points - Monica Larner, The Wine Advocate