Giuseppe Mascarello Barolo Monprivato 2019

Winery Background and History

Founded in 1881, Giuseppe Mascarello e Figlio is a historic family-run winery located in Monchiero, Piedmont, Italy. The estate has been passed down through generations, with Mauro Mascarello currently at the helm. The winery is renowned for its traditional approach to winemaking, emphasizing low yields, meticulous vineyard management, and minimal intervention in the cellar. Their commitment to expressing the unique terroir of their vineyards has solidified their reputation among Piedmont’s elite producers.

Producer and Winemaker

Mauro Mascarello, representing the fourth generation, has been instrumental in upholding the family’s winemaking traditions while introducing subtle innovations. He emphasizes the importance of terroir, ensuring that each wine reflects the character of its specific vineyard. Mauro’s dedication to quality and authenticity has garnered acclaim, particularly for the estate’s single-vineyard wines, which are celebrated for their elegance and depth.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The Monprivato vineyard is situated in the commune of Castiglione Falletto, within the Barolo region. This prime hillside site spans over six hectares at 280 meters above sea level and is characterized by silty, calcareous soils rich in active limestone, composed of blue-grey marl from the Helvetian era of the Miocene epoch. The vineyard’s southwest exposure and continental climate with significant diurnal temperature variations contribute to the development of Nebbiolo grapes with vibrant acidity, deep color, and complex aromatic profiles.

Vinification & Aging Methods

Grapes are hand-harvested in mid-October and undergo traditional floating cap fermentation for 20 to 25 days. The wine is then matured in medium-sized Slavonian oak barrels for approximately 38 months, allowing it to develop complexity and balance while retaining its varietal purity.

Tasting Notes

The 2019 Barolo Monprivato exhibits a garnet red color with orange highlights. On the nose, it offers complex aromas of rose, strawberry, cherry, mineral, and underbrush. The palate is full-bodied and racy, showcasing flavors of crunchy red cherry, juicy strawberry, black tea, and white pepper, culminating in notes of star anise and salty mineral. The wine is well-structured with integrated tannins and a long, mineral-inflected finish.

Food & Wine Pairing

This Barolo pairs excellently with a variety of dishes, including:

• Oxtail pappardelle

• Cannelloni with beef

• Roasted grouse with porcini mushrooms

• Grana Padano cheese

Its vibrant acidity and complex flavors complement both hearty and savory dishes.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate its nuances, decant the wine for 1 to 2 hours before serving. Serve at a temperature of 18–20°C (64–68°F) in large, tulip-shaped glasses to allow the aromas to fully develop. This approach enhances the wine’s expressive bouquet and balanced palate.

Storage and Aging Potential

While the 2019 Barolo Monprivato is approachable now, it possesses the structure and acidity to age gracefully for 20 to 30 years. Proper cellaring conditions—cool temperatures, consistent humidity, and minimal light exposure—will allow the wine to develop additional complexity and depth over time.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

• 100% Nebbiolo

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

• 14.5%

Scores

• Wine Spectator: 97/100

• Kerin O’Keefe: 100/100

• Jeb Dunnuck: 98/100

• Jancis Robinson: 18+/20