Giuseppe Mascarello Dolcetto d’Alba Santo Stefano di Perno 2022

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 Santo Stefano di Perno vineyard is situated in the commune of Monforte d’Alba, within the Barolo region. Characterized by sandy, clay, and limestone-rich soils, the vineyard benefits from a continental climate with significant diurnal temperature variations. These conditions contribute to the development of grapes with vibrant acidity, deep color, and complex aromatic profiles, essential for producing high-quality Dolcetto wines.

Vinification & Aging Methods

Grapes are hand-harvested in mid-September and undergo traditional floating cap fermentation in open vats at controlled temperatures. The wine is then aged for approximately 8 months in concrete tanks, allowing it to retain its varietal purity and freshness. This approach results in a wine that is both expressive and true to its terroir.

Tasting Notes

The 2022 Dolcetto d’Alba Santo Stefano di Perno displays a deep ruby-red color. On the nose, it offers strong, fruity aromas with floral touches. The palate is dry with a nice body, exhibiting a slight bitterness that adds to its elegance and varietal character. Notes of black raspberry, Marasca cherry, ground brown pepper, and bitter almond are complemented by a tight, tannic backbone, indicating its potential for aging. 

Food & Wine Pairing

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

• White meats such as chicken or turkey

• Soups and pasta dishes

• Charcuterie and cured cheeses

• Grilled vegetables

Its vibrant acidity and fruit-forward profile complement both hearty and savory flavors.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate its nuances, decant the wine for 30 minutes before serving. Serve at a temperature of 16–18°C (60–64°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 2022 Dolcetto d’Alba Santo Stefano di Perno is approachable in its youth, it possesses the structure and acidity to age gracefully for 4 to 5 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% Dolcetto

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

• 14.5%

Scores

Kerin O’Keefe: 93/100