2016 Bartolo Mascarello Barolo

This legendary Barolo has traditionally been a blend of the estate’s plots in Canubbi, Ruè, Rocche dell’Annunziata and San Lorenzo. In 2015, the latter was pulled out and prepared for replanting. Coincidentally, in the same year, owners of a small, well-exposed Nebbiolo parcel neighbouring Mascarello’s Dolcetto holdings in Monrobiolo di Bussia offered it for rent, essentially making up the shortfall. The 2016 is so effortlessly seamless it is almost a shame to tease apart. Understated in its beauty, the nose slowly doles out successive fragrances of rose, raspberry, white pepper and rosehip. Expanding graciously across the palate, it distributes velvety, finely powdered tannins that are still compact and will take years to dissolve. But it is the underlying vibrant energy that drives this wine. Hints of blood orange and lavender linger on finish. (MM)