Massolino Langhe Nebbiolo 2021
This wine just gets better and better. Early vintages of the Nebbiolo were sourced exclusively from Massolino's younger vines in Serralunga--a declassified Barolo if you like. Today there are two more parcels in play: Monforte's Cascina I Maschi vineyard lies at altitude right on the border of the Barolo area where the soils are rich in chalk (Massolino credits this cool site with the resultant vibrant perfume and ripe acidity); then there's a parcel in Alba on lighter, sandy clay soils, which brings power and fruit concentration.
The blend is roughly one-third from each terroir, and there's little doubt the sum of these three sites has bought even more brightness and early drinking appeal to what was already an outstanding Langhe Nebbiolo. Like all Massolino Nebbiolo, it was aged in large Slavonian oak casks (although the Langhe only spends 15 months in wood, as compared to 24-plus months for the Barolo wines).
Nestled in the heart of the Langhe region in Piedmont, Italy, lies the renowned Massolino Winery. With a rich history dating back over 120 years, this family-owned estate has become a symbol of excellence in winemaking, capturing the essence of the land and the spirit of the region. Founded in 1896 by Giovanni Massolino, the winery has been passed down through four generations, each contributing their unique expertise and passion for producing exceptional wines. Today, Franco and Roberto Massolino, the great-grandsons of Giovanni, continue the family legacy leading the winery with unwavering dedication and commitment to quality. One of the key factors that sets Massolino Winery apart is its prime vineyard locations. Spread across 23 hectares, the estate boasts vineyards in some of the most prestigious crus in the Langhe, including the iconic Serralunga d'Alba and Castiglione Falletto. These vineyards, with their diverse soil compositions and microclimates, provide the perfect terroir for cultivating Nebbiolo, the grape variety that gives birth to the legendary Barolo wines. Massolino Winery has gained a reputation for crafting exceptional expressions of Barolo wine. With meticulous attention to detail, the winemakers at Massolino harness the full potential of the Nebbiolo grape, creating wines that are elegant, structured and age-worthy. From the flagship Barolo "Margheria" to the single-vineyard "Parafada" and "Vigna Rionda," each bottle tells a story of tradition, craftsmanship and a deep connection to the land. Apart from Barolo, Massolino Winery also produces a range of other remarkable wines. Their Barbera d'Alba, Dolcetto d'Alba and Langhe Chardonnay showcase the winery's diverse portfolio, offering a glimpse into the versatility and finesse that define their winemaking approach. These wines, while distinct in character, all share a common thread of excellence and a commitment to reflecting the true essence of the grapes. At Massolino Winery, tradition and innovation go hand in hand. While respecting the heritage and winemaking techniques of the past, the winery embraces modern technology and practices to ensure the highest quality standards. From the careful selection of grapes to the gentle vinification process and the extended aging in large oak barrels, every step is meticulously executed to produce wines that are a true expression of the land and the vintage. Massolino Winery stands as a testament to the power of family, tradition, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Massolino Winery is not just a winery; it is a celebration of the Langhe's winemaking heritage and a journey into the world of extraordinary wines that captivate the senses and leave an indelible mark on the palate.
Langhe Nebbiolo is a red wine made from the Nebbiolo grape variety in the Langhe region of Piedmont, Italy. It is often considered a "baby Barolo" or "baby Barbaresco" because it is made from the same grape and grown in the same region, but it is typically less expensive and meant to be consumed at a younger age. Langhe Nebbiolo wines are known for their elegance, complexity and structure. They typically have aromas of red fruits, roses, and tar and exhibit high acidity and firm tannins.
The Massolino Langhe Nebbiolo 2021 is a classic wine rooted in tradition, reflecting the essence of the Nebbiolo grape. Crafted with utmost care and attention to detail, this wine undergoes a medium period of fermentation and maceration, lasting approximately 15 days. It matures in large Slavonian oak barrels for over a year, allowing it to develop its unique character. In the glass, the wine reveals a garnet red hue, with the intensity varying slightly depending on the vintage. On the nose, delicate and pleasant aromas emerge, with raspberry and violet taking centre stage. As the wine ages, it develops refined and elegant secondary scents, adding depth and complexity to the bouquet. Upon tasting, the Massolino Langhe Nebbiolo 2021 showcases its elegance and completeness. It captivates with a charming appeal, inviting you to further explore its flavors. For optimal enjoyment, decanting is recommended, allowing the wine to breathe and fully express itself.
The Finer Details
Style - Red Wine
Varietal - Nebbiolo
Country - Italy
Region - Piedmont
Vintage - 2021
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 14.5%