Engaging from the get-go, the nose offers scents of wild strawberry, violets, tarragon and liquorice. Lovely depth of plush red fruit intertwines with tangy minerals. The tannins are polished and long, drawing from the front of the mouth with graceful ease through to the finish. So elegantly composed. Massolino has put out a beautiful set of 2021s, starting with the estate’s not-to-be missed ‘classic’ Barolo. It is built around the Collaretto MGA with various other holdings in Serralunga. In some vintages, a small part of Parussi makes it in which is why this isn’t declared as a village Barolo.

Intense, smoky style to this Barolo, dominated by floral aromas, with citrus notes allied to red fruits and gentle spice. The palate is medium-bodied with chewy acidity and tannins which are flexible and not dry, despite the austere finish. Try from 2027.

The 2021 Barolo from Massolino is a lovely wine. It opens with heady aromas of dog rose, wild red berry and whiffs of botanical herb and new leather. On the elegant, savory palate, taut, fine-grained tannins accompany ripe Morello cherry, star anise and orange peel that give it a tangy finish.

A jeweled ruby red color, the 2021 Barolo is expressive on the nose with notes of polished leather, ripe cherries, fresh herbs, and mossy earth. The structure is quite appealing, with mouthwatering, ripe acidity, sweet tannins, and an even feel in a medium-bodied frame that’s gently rounded. It’s a very pretty wine and a nice calling card for the estate in this vintage. Drink 2025-2035.

The 2021 Barolo is a fabulous wine that shows both the quality of the year and the very high standards at Massolino. Pliant and expressive, with notable depth, the Barolo is super-impressive. Macerated dark cherry, spice, lavender, menthol and blood orange all build in the glass. What a gorgeous and complete wine this is. The straight Barolo is, without question, the hidden gem in this range. - By Antonio Galloni on January 2025