Massolino Barolo 2022

Massolino Barolo 2022

First produced in 1911, the fruit for Massolino's classic cuvée comes from seven hectares of prime-sited Serralunga vineyards. The most important of these—Briccolina, Collareto, Broglio and Le Turne—are dotted around the town itself; Le Turne borders Margheria, while Collareto lies next to Vigna Rionda. So, we are talking quality real estate! As in recent vintages, the blend also includes a little fruit from Massolino's Parussi Cru as well as some declassified Vigna Rionda. Vine age varies from roughly 10 to 55 years old. The grapes spent 10–12 days on the skins, with fermentation split between large wooden cask and concrete as before. The final blend matured for 30 months, this time across a broader range of vessels than 2021: 40- to 100-hl French (Gamba), Austrian (Stockinger, Schneckenleitner) and Slavonian (Garbellotto) oak, rather than large Slavonian casks alone. You will be amazed, as we so often are, by the quality that is being delivered at this price point. And don’t be scared to give it some air, or to age it another 5 or so years.

Cherry, almond, a woody herb element, liquorice, floral perfume. Red fruits mainly, fresh, some orange peel, a light grain to tannin, surprisingly lively on a finish of good length. Very good wine. 93 Points - Gary Walsh, The Wine Front

Lustrous and healthy ruby. Great lift and perfume on the nose with a subtle saline note. Finely polished tannins and supple raspberry fruit. Great length and precision. Ready now but will hold.  17++/20 - Walter Speller, Jancis Robinson

The Massolino 2022 Barolo is a lithe, lovely red with pretty aromas of wild rose, botanical herb and red berry. On the tangy palate, rather pliant, fine-grained tannins accompany tart cherry, wild strawberry and nutmeg before closing on a note of bitter orange. Drink 2027–2032. 92 Points - Kerrin O'Keefe

The Massolino 2022 Barolo is a blend of fruit from Serralunga d'Alba, with vineyards in Collaretto, Briccolina, Broglio and Le Turne, together with a parcel in Castiglione Falletto. Aged for up to 30 months in large Slavonian oak casks, the wine offers an open-knit personality with generous layers of blackcurrant and boysenberry followed by earthy autumnal notes, licorice and baking spice. This is a classic rendition with medium- to full-bodied richness and the bold lines and extra concentration you expect from a warm-vintage Nebbiolo. Despite its broader frame, the wine avoids overripe flavors and remains remarkably composed. A lifted herbal note, almost minty in character, adds freshness on the finish. 93 Points - Monica Larner, The Wine Advocate