Barolo
Known as the king of wines, it is potent, complex and long-lived wine made from the Nebbiolo grape. The appellation is spread over 2,134 ha in total and consists of several villages and communes. divided into a multitude of individual vineyard sites and crus similar to Burgundy, with many producers owning small plots of the individual crus.
The main winemaking approach is a long maceration of Nebbiolo grapes - between 30 to 60 days -followed by a long maturation period in large old casks for a minimum of 38 months. And many producers often choose to age their wines even longer than this because of the intense fruit and powerful tannins of their grapes.
The combination of microclimate, altitude, soil, exposition and each winemaker’s individual touch is what makes every Barolo different. And in the main communes such as Serralunga, Castiglione Falletto, and La Morra, their Barolos are renowned for certain characteristics unique to each of them, due to their differing soils and exposition.
Barolo
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Vinous (93+)
The 2015 Barolo San Rocco is the most potent and structured of the Azelia Barolos. Swaths of tannin enshroud this tightly wound, classically austere Barolo. Readers should plan on cellaring the 2015 for at least a few years. This is one of the more reticent young Barolos I have tasted at Azelia.Inc. VAT£451.18 -
Vinous (94)
Azelia's 2016 Barolo San Rocco shows terrific density and richness, but it is less aromatically expressive than most of the other 2016s in the range. Readers will have to give this at least a few years in bottle for the tannins to soften. Even in the early going, though, the 2016 is deep, powerful and loaded with pedigree. Now that most of Azelia's wines are aged in cask, the influence of small French oak is especially evident.Inc. VAT£177.19 -
Vinous (94)
Azelia's 2016 Barolo San Rocco shows terrific density and richness, but it is less aromatically expressive than most of the other 2016s in the range. Readers will have to give this at least a few years in bottle for the tannins to soften. Even in the early going, though, the 2016 is deep, powerful and loaded with pedigree. Now that most of Azelia's wines are aged in cask, the influence of small French oak is especially evident.Inc. VAT£583.18 -
(6x150cl) 2016Vinous (94)
Azelia's 2016 Barolo San Rocco shows terrific density and richness, but it is less aromatically expressive than most of the other 2016s in the range. Readers will have to give this at least a few years in bottle for the tannins to soften. Even in the early going, though, the 2016 is deep, powerful and loaded with pedigree. Now that most of Azelia's wines are aged in cask, the influence of small French oak is especially evident.Inc. VAT£884.24 -
Vinous (94)
Azelia's 2016 Barolo San Rocco shows terrific density and richness, but it is less aromatically expressive than most of the other 2016s in the range. Readers will have to give this at least a few years in bottle for the tannins to soften. Even in the early going, though, the 2016 is deep, powerful and loaded with pedigree. Now that most of Azelia's wines are aged in cask, the influence of small French oak is especially evident.Inc. VAT£457.18 -
Vinous (94)
The 2017 Barolo San Rocco is powerful and tightly wound. All of its energy is focused inward today. There is terrific brightness and focus to the red berry fruit, but the 2017 is not in a mood to show much today. Readers will have to be patient. I am encourage by the wine's solid feel and pure power.Inc. VAT£153.19 -
Vinous (94)
The 2017 Barolo San Rocco is powerful and tightly wound. All of its energy is focused inward today. There is terrific brightness and focus to the red berry fruit, but the 2017 is not in a mood to show much today. Readers will have to be patient. I am encourage by the wine's solid feel and pure power.Inc. VAT£583.18 -
Vinous (94)
The 2017 Barolo San Rocco is powerful and tightly wound. All of its energy is focused inward today. There is terrific brightness and focus to the red berry fruit, but the 2017 is not in a mood to show much today. Readers will have to be patient. I am encourage by the wine's solid feel and pure power.Inc. VAT£383.98 -
Vinous (88)
The 2018 Barolo San Rocco is graced with pretty red berry fruit, orange peel, flowers and white pepper. There is fine balance and plenty of delineation, but the San Rocco is decidedly understated and quiet, as so many Barolos are in 2018. It's hard to look past the short, abrupt finish.Inc. VAT£490.40 -
Dare to indulge in the extraordinary Azelia Barolo San Rocco 2019, a distinctive grandeur from Italy's renowned Piedmont region. Crafted by the artisan winemakers at Azelia, a boutique winery highly acclaimed for its meticulous production techniques, this Barolo exudes a vibrant fusion of classic elegance and modern intensity. The venerable Nebbiolo grapes are masterfully matured in French oak for 24 long months to elicit a symphony of enticing aromas — ripe cherries layered with a fervent undercurrent of dark chocolate, leading into a palate brimming with structured tannins and nuanced, endless finish. Honouring a tradition spanning five generations, Azelia Barolo San Rocco 2019 is a wine crafted in respect to terroir, demonstrating not only the formidable character of Serralunga d'Alba's calcareous soil, but elevating it to a sublime expression of magnitude and grace. Experience the unparalleled blend of depth and verve that is Azelia Barolo San Rocco 2019.
Inc. VAT£557.60 -
Regarded as a true connoisseur's delight, the Azelia Barolo Voghera Brea Riserva 2010 divine embodiment of Italian sophistication. This fine red wine, crafted by the revered vintner, Azelia, originates from vineyards in the Barolo region, particularly the Voghera Brea district. The vintner's commitment to traditional vinification processes and respect for the terroir shines through their Riserva wines. The grapes for the Azelia Barolo Voghera Brea Riserva 2010 were handpicked in the autumn, then subjected to a lengthy fermentation and maceration, resulting in a wine of sublimely nuanced complexity. Each glass tantalises with vivid essences of ripe red fruit, subtly mingling with notes of liquorice and spice. This wine elegantly unfolds over time, offering a profound, lingering finish. With an impressive ageing potential, the Azelia Barolo Voghera Brea Riserva 2010 exemplifies the time-honoured skill of its producer, a true testament to the commanding grandeur of Barolo wines.
Inc. VAT£174.40 -
Regarded as a true connoisseur's delight, the Azelia Barolo Voghera Brea Riserva 2010 divine embodiment of Italian sophistication. This fine red wine, crafted by the revered vintner, Azelia, originates from vineyards in the Barolo region, particularly the Voghera Brea district. The vintner's commitment to traditional vinification processes and respect for the terroir shines through their Riserva wines. The grapes for the Azelia Barolo Voghera Brea Riserva 2010 were handpicked in the autumn, then subjected to a lengthy fermentation and maceration, resulting in a wine of sublimely nuanced complexity. Each glass tantalises with vivid essences of ripe red fruit, subtly mingling with notes of liquorice and spice. This wine elegantly unfolds over time, offering a profound, lingering finish. With an impressive ageing potential, the Azelia Barolo Voghera Brea Riserva 2010 exemplifies the time-honoured skill of its producer, a true testament to the commanding grandeur of Barolo wines.
Inc. VAT£1,492.75 -
Regarded as a true connoisseur's delight, the Azelia Barolo Voghera Brea Riserva 2010 divine embodiment of Italian sophistication. This fine red wine, crafted by the revered vintner, Azelia, originates from vineyards in the Barolo region, particularly the Voghera Brea district. The vintner's commitment to traditional vinification processes and respect for the terroir shines through their Riserva wines. The grapes for the Azelia Barolo Voghera Brea Riserva 2010 were handpicked in the autumn, then subjected to a lengthy fermentation and maceration, resulting in a wine of sublimely nuanced complexity. Each glass tantalises with vivid essences of ripe red fruit, subtly mingling with notes of liquorice and spice. This wine elegantly unfolds over time, offering a profound, lingering finish. With an impressive ageing potential, the Azelia Barolo Voghera Brea Riserva 2010 exemplifies the time-honoured skill of its producer, a true testament to the commanding grandeur of Barolo wines.
Inc. VAT£790.78 -
The Azelia Barolo Voghera Brea Riserva 2013 is an exquisite embodiment of luxury and refinement. Crafted in the heart of Piemonte region in Italy, this majestic fine wine emanates from the gifted hands of the Scavino family. Renowned for their limited production, they dedicate their passion to creating the most superior wines, setting incomparable standards.
This 2013 vintage demonstrates perfect synthesis of richness in flavour and depth, offering exuberant aromas of dried roses, truffles and dark, delicate fruits. The complexities speak volumes of the meticulous Nebbiolo grapes fermentation process, further aged in large, oversized Slavonian oak barrels for 42 months. The result is a wine shimmering with intense garnet hues, marrying bright acidity with formidable tannins.
Thoughtfully structured and seeping with inimitable grandeur, the Azelia Barolo Voghera Brea Riserva 2013 is not just a wine, it’s a profound narrative of tradition and superior winemaking prowess. An unforgettable experience for discerning connoisseurs worldwide, this wine stands as a flagship of its category.
Inc. VAT£944.00 -
The Azelia Barolo Voghera Brea Riserva 2013 is an exquisite embodiment of luxury and refinement. Crafted in the heart of Piemonte region in Italy, this majestic fine wine emanates from the gifted hands of the Scavino family. Renowned for their limited production, they dedicate their passion to creating the most superior wines, setting incomparable standards.
This 2013 vintage demonstrates perfect synthesis of richness in flavour and depth, offering exuberant aromas of dried roses, truffles and dark, delicate fruits. The complexities speak volumes of the meticulous Nebbiolo grapes fermentation process, further aged in large, oversized Slavonian oak barrels for 42 months. The result is a wine shimmering with intense garnet hues, marrying bright acidity with formidable tannins.
Thoughtfully structured and seeping with inimitable grandeur, the Azelia Barolo Voghera Brea Riserva 2013 is not just a wine, it’s a profound narrative of tradition and superior winemaking prowess. An unforgettable experience for discerning connoisseurs worldwide, this wine stands as a flagship of its category.
Inc. VAT£923.60 -
(1x75cl) 1950Inc. VAT£865.45 -
(1x75cl) 1958Inc. VAT£989.83 -
(1x75cl) 1961Inc. VAT£925.50 -
Vinous (96)
Bartolo Mascarello's 1982 Barolo was a bit sweeter and more perfumed, but still had plenty of underlying verve.Inc. VAT£1,291.69 -
(3x150cl) 1983Inc. VAT£3,236.00 -
(1x150cl) 1988Vinous (94)
I admit I have never really found much to admire in the 1988 vintage in Piedmont. Perhaps that is because 1989 and 1990 are both of such high quality, while 1985, 1986 and even at times 1987 are all more distinctive. With that in mind, Mascarello’s 1988 Barolo is a truly enchanting and seductive wine. Absolutely haunting in its beauty, the 1988 offers up a classic bouquet of dried rose petal, tar, anise, orange peel and bright red stone fruit, with the translucent, weightlessness that only Nebbiolo and Pinot Noir can deliver. Crystalline and pure, the 1988 has enough balance to drink well for another decade, even if it doesn’t have the sheer weight of some of the surrounding vintages. The 1988 is striking when it is first opened and it is just as beautiful several hours later. What a wine!Inc. VAT£1,400.02 -
(3x150cl) 1988Vinous (94)
I admit I have never really found much to admire in the 1988 vintage in Piedmont. Perhaps that is because 1989 and 1990 are both of such high quality, while 1985, 1986 and even at times 1987 are all more distinctive. With that in mind, Mascarello’s 1988 Barolo is a truly enchanting and seductive wine. Absolutely haunting in its beauty, the 1988 offers up a classic bouquet of dried rose petal, tar, anise, orange peel and bright red stone fruit, with the translucent, weightlessness that only Nebbiolo and Pinot Noir can deliver. Crystalline and pure, the 1988 has enough balance to drink well for another decade, even if it doesn’t have the sheer weight of some of the surrounding vintages. The 1988 is striking when it is first opened and it is just as beautiful several hours later. What a wine!Inc. VAT£3,546.80 -
Vinous (97)
Tasted from magnum, the 1996 Barolo is absolutely stunning. Vibrant and wonderfully alive, the 1996 exudes class. Time has gently softened the 1996 tannins, rendering the 1996 super-expressive today. Balsamic, mentholated notes, along with scents of tobacco and dried stone fruit continue to open up with time in the glass. The 1996 is still firm and quite powerful, but not as austere as many wines are in this vintage. Tar, licorice and scorched earth add the closing shades of nuance in an impeccably balanced, vivid Barolo that captures the personality of the vintage at its best.Inc. VAT£436.92 -
(1x75cl) 2003Vinous (93)
The 2003 Barolo is one of many unexpected surprises of the night. From a period before quality really skyrockets at the domaine, the 2003 is remarkably fresh, perfumed and expressive. Naturally, the 2003 doesn’t match the level of the best wines on the table, but it is, frankly, much stronger than I had expected. The 2003 is also one of the best semi-current vintages for present-day drinking.Inc. VAT£230.93 -
(12x75cl) 2005Wine Advocate (95)
The 2005 Barolo is super-delicate and finessed. This is a decidedly restrained, feminine style of Barolo laced with roses, raspberries, jasmine and berries. It will be fascinating to see which direction the 2005 takes from here. At times the wine appears to be putting on additional weight, but it nevertheless retains an element of frailty that is actually quite attractive. I rate the 2005 just behind the 2004, 2006 and 2007, but it is a gorgeous wine, and easily one of the very finest wines of the vintage.Inc. VAT£5,908.30 -
Wine Advocate (95)
The 2005 Barolo is super-delicate and finessed. This is a decidedly restrained, feminine style of Barolo laced with roses, raspberries, jasmine and berries. It will be fascinating to see which direction the 2005 takes from here. At times the wine appears to be putting on additional weight, but it nevertheless retains an element of frailty that is actually quite attractive. I rate the 2005 just behind the 2004, 2006 and 2007, but it is a gorgeous wine, and easily one of the very finest wines of the vintage.Inc. VAT£696.52 -
Vinous (98)
The 2008 Barolo is once again superb. The striking aromatics that are so typical of the year make a strong first impression. Delicate and silky on the palate, yet also deceptive in its mid-weight structure, the 2008 is pure seduction. A hint of grip from the tannins appears on the finish, but with some air, the 2008 is quite open. It will be interesting to see if the 2008 ever goes into a shell. Thus far, it has remained surprisingly open for a young Barolo from a cool, late-ripening vintage.Inc. VAT£1,847.18 -
Vinous (98)
The 2008 Barolo is once again superb. The striking aromatics that are so typical of the year make a strong first impression. Delicate and silky on the palate, yet also deceptive in its mid-weight structure, the 2008 is pure seduction. A hint of grip from the tannins appears on the finish, but with some air, the 2008 is quite open. It will be interesting to see if the 2008 ever goes into a shell. Thus far, it has remained surprisingly open for a young Barolo from a cool, late-ripening vintage.Inc. VAT£2,356.78 -
Wine Advocate (94+)
The 2009 Barolo (aged three years in botte grande and one year in bottle) opens with a crystalline, ruby color and shows extreme focus and precision. Rosehip, forest berry, wild mint, lightly toasted pine nut, dried ginger and underbrush all appear on the ever-changing bouquet. The wine is extremely finessed and silky on the close with beautiful menthol freshness at the end. In Barolo tradition, fruit was normally sourced from many vineyards. The concept of single vineyards is relatively new. In keeping with tradition, this Barolo sees fruit from the Canubbi, San Lorenzo, Rue, and Rocche di La Morra vineyards. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2035.Inc. VAT£1,385.12 -
Vinous (100)
From the moment we put together this tasting, I knew the 2010 Barolo had to be in the lineup because of its historical significance. It is arguably the greatest wine ever made here. Although naturally very young, the 2010 is super-expressive and also one of the clear highlights of the evening. All the elements simply fall into place. The interplay of aromatics, fruit and structure is utterly captivating. In many ways, the 2010 represents a culmination of all the work Maria Teresa Mascarello and her team have done over the last two decades to elevate quality. The gentleman to my left tells me I made a mistake in my initial review and score of the 2010. I agree.Inc. VAT£1,250.92
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Vinous (93+)
The 2015 Barolo San Rocco is the most potent and structured of the Azelia Barolos. Swaths of tannin enshroud this tightly wound, classically austere Barolo. Readers should plan on cellaring the 2015 for at least a few years. This is one of the more reticent young Barolos I have tasted at Azelia.In Bond£356.00 -
Vinous (94)
Azelia's 2016 Barolo San Rocco shows terrific density and richness, but it is less aromatically expressive than most of the other 2016s in the range. Readers will have to give this at least a few years in bottle for the tannins to soften. Even in the early going, though, the 2016 is deep, powerful and loaded with pedigree. Now that most of Azelia's wines are aged in cask, the influence of small French oak is especially evident.In Bond£141.00 -
Vinous (94)
Azelia's 2016 Barolo San Rocco shows terrific density and richness, but it is less aromatically expressive than most of the other 2016s in the range. Readers will have to give this at least a few years in bottle for the tannins to soften. Even in the early going, though, the 2016 is deep, powerful and loaded with pedigree. Now that most of Azelia's wines are aged in cask, the influence of small French oak is especially evident.In Bond£466.00 -
(6x150cl) 2016
Vinous (94)
Azelia's 2016 Barolo San Rocco shows terrific density and richness, but it is less aromatically expressive than most of the other 2016s in the range. Readers will have to give this at least a few years in bottle for the tannins to soften. Even in the early going, though, the 2016 is deep, powerful and loaded with pedigree. Now that most of Azelia's wines are aged in cask, the influence of small French oak is especially evident.In Bond£696.91 -
Vinous (94)
Azelia's 2016 Barolo San Rocco shows terrific density and richness, but it is less aromatically expressive than most of the other 2016s in the range. Readers will have to give this at least a few years in bottle for the tannins to soften. Even in the early going, though, the 2016 is deep, powerful and loaded with pedigree. Now that most of Azelia's wines are aged in cask, the influence of small French oak is especially evident.In Bond£361.00 -
Vinous (94)
The 2017 Barolo San Rocco is powerful and tightly wound. All of its energy is focused inward today. There is terrific brightness and focus to the red berry fruit, but the 2017 is not in a mood to show much today. Readers will have to be patient. I am encourage by the wine's solid feel and pure power.In Bond£121.00 -
Vinous (94)
The 2017 Barolo San Rocco is powerful and tightly wound. All of its energy is focused inward today. There is terrific brightness and focus to the red berry fruit, but the 2017 is not in a mood to show much today. Readers will have to be patient. I am encourage by the wine's solid feel and pure power.In Bond£466.00 -
Vinous (94)
The 2017 Barolo San Rocco is powerful and tightly wound. All of its energy is focused inward today. There is terrific brightness and focus to the red berry fruit, but the 2017 is not in a mood to show much today. Readers will have to be patient. I am encourage by the wine's solid feel and pure power.In Bond£300.00 -
Vinous (88)
The 2018 Barolo San Rocco is graced with pretty red berry fruit, orange peel, flowers and white pepper. There is fine balance and plenty of delineation, but the San Rocco is decidedly understated and quiet, as so many Barolos are in 2018. It's hard to look past the short, abrupt finish.In Bond£388.00 -
Dare to indulge in the extraordinary Azelia Barolo San Rocco 2019, a distinctive grandeur from Italy's renowned Piedmont region. Crafted by the artisan winemakers at Azelia, a boutique winery highly acclaimed for its meticulous production techniques, this Barolo exudes a vibrant fusion of classic elegance and modern intensity. The venerable Nebbiolo grapes are masterfully matured in French oak for 24 long months to elicit a symphony of enticing aromas — ripe cherries layered with a fervent undercurrent of dark chocolate, leading into a palate brimming with structured tannins and nuanced, endless finish. Honouring a tradition spanning five generations, Azelia Barolo San Rocco 2019 is a wine crafted in respect to terroir, demonstrating not only the formidable character of Serralunga d'Alba's calcareous soil, but elevating it to a sublime expression of magnitude and grace. Experience the unparalleled blend of depth and verve that is Azelia Barolo San Rocco 2019.
In Bond£444.00 -
Regarded as a true connoisseur's delight, the Azelia Barolo Voghera Brea Riserva 2010 divine embodiment of Italian sophistication. This fine red wine, crafted by the revered vintner, Azelia, originates from vineyards in the Barolo region, particularly the Voghera Brea district. The vintner's commitment to traditional vinification processes and respect for the terroir shines through their Riserva wines. The grapes for the Azelia Barolo Voghera Brea Riserva 2010 were handpicked in the autumn, then subjected to a lengthy fermentation and maceration, resulting in a wine of sublimely nuanced complexity. Each glass tantalises with vivid essences of ripe red fruit, subtly mingling with notes of liquorice and spice. This wine elegantly unfolds over time, offering a profound, lingering finish. With an impressive ageing potential, the Azelia Barolo Voghera Brea Riserva 2010 exemplifies the time-honoured skill of its producer, a true testament to the commanding grandeur of Barolo wines.
In Bond£142.00 -
Regarded as a true connoisseur's delight, the Azelia Barolo Voghera Brea Riserva 2010 divine embodiment of Italian sophistication. This fine red wine, crafted by the revered vintner, Azelia, originates from vineyards in the Barolo region, particularly the Voghera Brea district. The vintner's commitment to traditional vinification processes and respect for the terroir shines through their Riserva wines. The grapes for the Azelia Barolo Voghera Brea Riserva 2010 were handpicked in the autumn, then subjected to a lengthy fermentation and maceration, resulting in a wine of sublimely nuanced complexity. Each glass tantalises with vivid essences of ripe red fruit, subtly mingling with notes of liquorice and spice. This wine elegantly unfolds over time, offering a profound, lingering finish. With an impressive ageing potential, the Azelia Barolo Voghera Brea Riserva 2010 exemplifies the time-honoured skill of its producer, a true testament to the commanding grandeur of Barolo wines.
In Bond£1,204.00 -
Regarded as a true connoisseur's delight, the Azelia Barolo Voghera Brea Riserva 2010 divine embodiment of Italian sophistication. This fine red wine, crafted by the revered vintner, Azelia, originates from vineyards in the Barolo region, particularly the Voghera Brea district. The vintner's commitment to traditional vinification processes and respect for the terroir shines through their Riserva wines. The grapes for the Azelia Barolo Voghera Brea Riserva 2010 were handpicked in the autumn, then subjected to a lengthy fermentation and maceration, resulting in a wine of sublimely nuanced complexity. Each glass tantalises with vivid essences of ripe red fruit, subtly mingling with notes of liquorice and spice. This wine elegantly unfolds over time, offering a profound, lingering finish. With an impressive ageing potential, the Azelia Barolo Voghera Brea Riserva 2010 exemplifies the time-honoured skill of its producer, a true testament to the commanding grandeur of Barolo wines.
In Bond£639.00 -
The Azelia Barolo Voghera Brea Riserva 2013 is an exquisite embodiment of luxury and refinement. Crafted in the heart of Piemonte region in Italy, this majestic fine wine emanates from the gifted hands of the Scavino family. Renowned for their limited production, they dedicate their passion to creating the most superior wines, setting incomparable standards.
This 2013 vintage demonstrates perfect synthesis of richness in flavour and depth, offering exuberant aromas of dried roses, truffles and dark, delicate fruits. The complexities speak volumes of the meticulous Nebbiolo grapes fermentation process, further aged in large, oversized Slavonian oak barrels for 42 months. The result is a wine shimmering with intense garnet hues, marrying bright acidity with formidable tannins.
Thoughtfully structured and seeping with inimitable grandeur, the Azelia Barolo Voghera Brea Riserva 2013 is not just a wine, it’s a profound narrative of tradition and superior winemaking prowess. An unforgettable experience for discerning connoisseurs worldwide, this wine stands as a flagship of its category.
In Bond£766.00 -
The Azelia Barolo Voghera Brea Riserva 2013 is an exquisite embodiment of luxury and refinement. Crafted in the heart of Piemonte region in Italy, this majestic fine wine emanates from the gifted hands of the Scavino family. Renowned for their limited production, they dedicate their passion to creating the most superior wines, setting incomparable standards.
This 2013 vintage demonstrates perfect synthesis of richness in flavour and depth, offering exuberant aromas of dried roses, truffles and dark, delicate fruits. The complexities speak volumes of the meticulous Nebbiolo grapes fermentation process, further aged in large, oversized Slavonian oak barrels for 42 months. The result is a wine shimmering with intense garnet hues, marrying bright acidity with formidable tannins.
Thoughtfully structured and seeping with inimitable grandeur, the Azelia Barolo Voghera Brea Riserva 2013 is not just a wine, it’s a profound narrative of tradition and superior winemaking prowess. An unforgettable experience for discerning connoisseurs worldwide, this wine stands as a flagship of its category.
In Bond£749.00 -
(1x75cl) 1950In Bond£718.00
-
(1x75cl) 1958In Bond£821.65
-
(1x75cl) 1961In Bond£768.04
-
Vinous (96)
Bartolo Mascarello's 1982 Barolo was a bit sweeter and more perfumed, but still had plenty of underlying verve.In Bond£1,070.00 -
(3x150cl) 1983In Bond£2,676.00
-
(1x150cl) 1988
Vinous (94)
I admit I have never really found much to admire in the 1988 vintage in Piedmont. Perhaps that is because 1989 and 1990 are both of such high quality, while 1985, 1986 and even at times 1987 are all more distinctive. With that in mind, Mascarello’s 1988 Barolo is a truly enchanting and seductive wine. Absolutely haunting in its beauty, the 1988 offers up a classic bouquet of dried rose petal, tar, anise, orange peel and bright red stone fruit, with the translucent, weightlessness that only Nebbiolo and Pinot Noir can deliver. Crystalline and pure, the 1988 has enough balance to drink well for another decade, even if it doesn’t have the sheer weight of some of the surrounding vintages. The 1988 is striking when it is first opened and it is just as beautiful several hours later. What a wine!In Bond£1,159.79 -
(3x150cl) 1988
Vinous (94)
I admit I have never really found much to admire in the 1988 vintage in Piedmont. Perhaps that is because 1989 and 1990 are both of such high quality, while 1985, 1986 and even at times 1987 are all more distinctive. With that in mind, Mascarello’s 1988 Barolo is a truly enchanting and seductive wine. Absolutely haunting in its beauty, the 1988 offers up a classic bouquet of dried rose petal, tar, anise, orange peel and bright red stone fruit, with the translucent, weightlessness that only Nebbiolo and Pinot Noir can deliver. Crystalline and pure, the 1988 has enough balance to drink well for another decade, even if it doesn’t have the sheer weight of some of the surrounding vintages. The 1988 is striking when it is first opened and it is just as beautiful several hours later. What a wine!In Bond£2,935.00 -
Vinous (97)
Tasted from magnum, the 1996 Barolo is absolutely stunning. Vibrant and wonderfully alive, the 1996 exudes class. Time has gently softened the 1996 tannins, rendering the 1996 super-expressive today. Balsamic, mentholated notes, along with scents of tobacco and dried stone fruit continue to open up with time in the glass. The 1996 is still firm and quite powerful, but not as austere as many wines are in this vintage. Tar, licorice and scorched earth add the closing shades of nuance in an impeccably balanced, vivid Barolo that captures the personality of the vintage at its best.In Bond£361.00 -
(1x75cl) 2003
Vinous (93)
The 2003 Barolo is one of many unexpected surprises of the night. From a period before quality really skyrockets at the domaine, the 2003 is remarkably fresh, perfumed and expressive. Naturally, the 2003 doesn’t match the level of the best wines on the table, but it is, frankly, much stronger than I had expected. The 2003 is also one of the best semi-current vintages for present-day drinking.In Bond£189.00 -
(12x75cl) 2005
Wine Advocate (95)
The 2005 Barolo is super-delicate and finessed. This is a decidedly restrained, feminine style of Barolo laced with roses, raspberries, jasmine and berries. It will be fascinating to see which direction the 2005 takes from here. At times the wine appears to be putting on additional weight, but it nevertheless retains an element of frailty that is actually quite attractive. I rate the 2005 just behind the 2004, 2006 and 2007, but it is a gorgeous wine, and easily one of the very finest wines of the vintage.In Bond£4,885.00 -
Wine Advocate (95)
The 2005 Barolo is super-delicate and finessed. This is a decidedly restrained, feminine style of Barolo laced with roses, raspberries, jasmine and berries. It will be fascinating to see which direction the 2005 takes from here. At times the wine appears to be putting on additional weight, but it nevertheless retains an element of frailty that is actually quite attractive. I rate the 2005 just behind the 2004, 2006 and 2007, but it is a gorgeous wine, and easily one of the very finest wines of the vintage.In Bond£574.00 -
Vinous (98)
The 2008 Barolo is once again superb. The striking aromatics that are so typical of the year make a strong first impression. Delicate and silky on the palate, yet also deceptive in its mid-weight structure, the 2008 is pure seduction. A hint of grip from the tannins appears on the finish, but with some air, the 2008 is quite open. It will be interesting to see if the 2008 ever goes into a shell. Thus far, it has remained surprisingly open for a young Barolo from a cool, late-ripening vintage.In Bond£1,526.00 -
Vinous (98)
The 2008 Barolo is once again superb. The striking aromatics that are so typical of the year make a strong first impression. Delicate and silky on the palate, yet also deceptive in its mid-weight structure, the 2008 is pure seduction. A hint of grip from the tannins appears on the finish, but with some air, the 2008 is quite open. It will be interesting to see if the 2008 ever goes into a shell. Thus far, it has remained surprisingly open for a young Barolo from a cool, late-ripening vintage.In Bond£1,944.00 -
Wine Advocate (94+)
The 2009 Barolo (aged three years in botte grande and one year in bottle) opens with a crystalline, ruby color and shows extreme focus and precision. Rosehip, forest berry, wild mint, lightly toasted pine nut, dried ginger and underbrush all appear on the ever-changing bouquet. The wine is extremely finessed and silky on the close with beautiful menthol freshness at the end. In Barolo tradition, fruit was normally sourced from many vineyards. The concept of single vineyards is relatively new. In keeping with tradition, this Barolo sees fruit from the Canubbi, San Lorenzo, Rue, and Rocche di La Morra vineyards. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2035.In Bond£1,135.00 -
Vinous (100)
From the moment we put together this tasting, I knew the 2010 Barolo had to be in the lineup because of its historical significance. It is arguably the greatest wine ever made here. Although naturally very young, the 2010 is super-expressive and also one of the clear highlights of the evening. All the elements simply fall into place. The interplay of aromatics, fruit and structure is utterly captivating. In many ways, the 2010 represents a culmination of all the work Maria Teresa Mascarello and her team have done over the last two decades to elevate quality. The gentleman to my left tells me I made a mistake in my initial review and score of the 2010. I agree.In Bond£1,036.00
Known as the king of wines, it is potent, complex and long-lived wine made from the Nebbiolo grape. The appellation is spread over 2,134 ha in total and consists of several villages and communes. divided into a multitude of individual vineyard sites and crus similar to Burgundy, with many producers owning small plots of the individual crus.
The main winemaking approach is a long maceration of Nebbiolo grapes - between 30 to 60 days -followed by a long maturation period in large old casks for a minimum of 38 months. And many producers often choose to age their wines even longer than this because of the intense fruit and powerful tannins of their grapes.
The combination of microclimate, altitude, soil, exposition and each winemaker’s individual touch is what makes every Barolo different. And in the main communes such as Serralunga, Castiglione Falletto, and La Morra, their Barolos are renowned for certain characteristics unique to each of them, due to their differing soils and exposition.
