2009 Massolino Barolo
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Tasting notes
(a blend of Serralunga vineyards, made after the single-vineyard wines have been assembled): Bright, moderately saturated red. Lovely perfumed aromas of redcurrant, red cherry, rose petal, blood orange and sexy oak. Supple, silky and sweet, with juicy, rich cherry and raspberry flavors complemented by a hint of marzipan. This moderately concentrated midweight finishes with firm, building tannins and very good floral persistence. Delicious already.
Critic scores
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2009 Barolo opens with soft, easy appeal that is very characteristic of the vintage. Dark fruit tones of cassis and dried cherry segue to spicy notes of cinnamon and nutmeg. Soft, fleshy fruit layers are stocked tight, but they do allow space for delicate tones of mint and licorice to lift from the bouquet. This is definitely a more approachable and softer Barolo, suited to near-term drinking: Anticipated maturity: 2013-2020. The Massolino family has deep roots in the Langhe. Great-grandfather Giovanni Massolino founded the winery in 1896 and was the first to bring electricity and a steam-operated machine for harvesting grain to Serralunga d’Alba. Grandfather Giuseppe was one of the founders of the local winegrowers’ consortium in 1934 and father Giovanni bought the first single vineyard, Parafada. Today, the estate is run by siblings Franco, Roberto and Paola. Importer: Domaine Select Wine Estates, New York, NY; tel. (212) 279-0799
Massolino's 2009 Barolo is pretty, soft and approachable. Floral notes meld into expressive red berries in this attractive, mid-weight wine. Readers looking for a tasty, early drinking Barolo will find a lot to like.