1996 Massolino "Vigna Rionda" Barolo Riserva

“Massolino's 1996 Barolo Riserva Vigna Rionda is in fabulous shape. Still developing beautifully, the 1996 has filled out nicely since I last tasted it. The razor-sharp tannins the wine had in its youth have softened as the fruit has begun to flesh out. Still young, the 1996 could use another few years to come into its own. A super classic-bouquet of herbs, lavender, mint, pine and sweet plum all open up, but the 1996 retains the austere classicism that is such a key attribute of this vintage. There is little question Massolino has since gone on to make even better wines, but the 1996 captures a pretty special era in the history of Piedmont. (AG)” (10/2017)

“Shows extremely pure fruit on the nose, with crushed raspberry and flowers. Full-bodied, with supersilky tannins and a fruity aftertaste that's refined and focused. Superlong and exciting. Still slightly mouthpuckering. (JS)” (05/2007)