Massolino Barolo 2020

Region and Vineyards

Massolino Barolo DOCG is made from Nebbiolo grapes grown in different vineyards across Serralunga d'Alba, one of the most prestigious Barolo-producing areas.

• The region’s calcareous soils with mixed consistencies play a crucial role in the wine’s firm tannins and longevity.
• Serralunga d'Alba benefits from a unique combination of climate and elevation, offering optimal conditions for Nebbiolo to ripen slowly, developing rich aromas and a balanced structure.
• These vineyards, situated on the region’s hillsides, offer diverse exposures, contributing to the wine’s broad aromatic range and layered complexity.

The Barolo Classico style is a blend of parcels, each contributing distinct elements, creating a harmonious and multifaceted wine that is both approachable and capable of long-term aging.

Winemaking

The production of Massolino Barolo follows traditional methods to preserve the authenticity of its terroir:

• Fermentation and maceration occur in large oak fermenters ("tini") at controlled temperatures of approximately 30°C, allowing for gentle extraction of color, tannins, and aromas.
• The wine is aged for up to 30 months in large Slavonian oak casks, which soften the tannins and enhance its complexity while maintaining its Nebbiolo character.
• A final period of bottle aging in dark, cool cellars refines the wine, preparing it for release and long-term aging potential.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Garnet red with varying intensity depending on the vintage.
• Aroma: A broad and evolving bouquet, showcasing a mix of spicy notes, floral tones like rose and violet, and hints of red fruit such as cherry and raspberry.
• Palate: Full-bodied and well-structured, offering a variety of sensations from ripe red fruit to earthy undertones. The firm tannins and vibrant acidity provide balance, leading to a long, elegant finish.

Did You Know?

Massolino Barolo has been produced since 1947, and it remains one of the estate’s flagship wines. By blending grapes from multiple vineyards, this Barolo reflects the diverse characteristics of Serralunga d'Alba’s terroir, offering a comprehensive expression of the region.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Braised beef cheeks in red wine: The wine’s bold tannins and acidity enhance the dish’s richness and depth.
• Tagliatelle with white truffle: The wine’s earthy notes and floral aromas complement the luxurious flavors of truffle.
• Roast game birds with herbs: The robust structure of the Barolo pairs well with the savory and aromatic profile of game meat.
• Aged Parmigiano Reggiano: Its nutty, salty character balances the wine’s tannins and bright acidity.

History of Massolino

The story of Massolino begins with Giovanni Massolino, an enterprising pioneer who founded the estate in 1896 and brought electricity to Serralunga d’Alba, a testament to his forward-thinking vision. Giovanni’s legacy was continued by his son Giuseppe, who expanded the estate to include some of the best soils in the region and was one of the founding members of the Consortium for the Defense of Barolo and Barbaresco in 1934.

Giuseppe’s children, Giovanni, Camilla, and Renato, further elevated the estate by acquiring prized cru vineyards, including Margheria, Parafada, and Vigna Rionda. In the 1990s, Franco and Roberto Massolino, both trained oenologists, joined the winery, combining the family's deep-rooted tradition with modern innovation in viticulture and winemaking. Their efforts have positioned Massolino as one of the most respected names in Barolo production globally.

Region and Vineyards

Massolino’s vineyards, covering 57 hectares, are primarily located in Serralunga d'Alba, known for its calcareous soils and ability to produce long-lived, structured wines. The family also owns plots in Castiglione Falletto (Parussi cru).

The crown jewel of their holdings is the legendary Vigna Rionda vineyard, producing some of the most celebrated Barolo Riservas. The estate also manages vineyards in Margheria and Parafada, all of which are renowned for their unique expressions of Nebbiolo. Additionally, Massolino cultivates Dolcetto, Barbera, Moscato, and Chardonnay, highlighting the diversity of Serralunga's terroir.

Wine Range of Massolino

Massolino produces a range of wines that reflect both traditional and modern winemaking philosophies:

Classic Wines

• Dolcetto d'Alba DOC
• Barbera d'Alba DOC
• Langhe DOC Nebbiolo
• Barbaresco DOCG
• Barolo DOCG
  These wines, vinified in large wooden barrels, maintain Massolino’s commitment to tradition. The Gisep Barbera d'Alba, dedicated to Giuseppe Massolino, is aged in barriques for a modern expression of Barbera.

Cru Wines

Massolino produces single-vineyard Barolo DOCG wines from:

• Margheria
• Parafada
• Vigna Rionda, including their prestigious Barolo Riserva DOCG, some of which is aged for 10 years (Dieci Anni).
  From Castiglione Falletto, Massolino also crafts Barolo Parussi, demonstrating the estate’s exploration of terroirs beyond Serralunga.

White Wines

• Langhe DOC Chardonnay: An international-style wine partially aged in barriques.
• Moscato d’Asti DOCG: A fresh, aromatic expression of Serralunga-grown Muscat grapes.

Did You Know?

Massolino’s Vigna Rionda vineyard is regarded as one of the most prestigious sites in Barolo. The estate’s Dieci Anni Barolo Riserva, aged for 10 years before release, showcases their commitment to producing Barolo that exemplifies the patience and aging potential of this iconic wine.