2007 Bartolo-Mascarello, Barolo DOCG, Piedmonte, Italy.
Absolutely sensational and gorgeous, this is near to perfection in every way, hats off to the Mascarello team, especially Maria Teresa Mascarello for making such majestic and spellbinding wines. I never thought I’d get a chance to try this wine, as the winery had to change importers, long-time importer Robert Chadderdon retired and a few vintages were caught in limbo, and now Rare Wine Company are the new importer, though they look set to start with limited amounts of the currant 2008, 2009 and 2010, but lucky for me and US fans, Kermit Lynch was able to get a few cases of the 2007, it was a one time deal from Chaddedon’s warehouse and the wines still have his import labels, it has all be confusing, though now all seems settled and we can look forward to these glorious wines again in America. The 2007 is a remarkable effort and a fantastic Barolo in everyday, the nose is deep, perfumed and complex with dried and fresh floral tones, sweet herbs, spice and delicate framboise notes add to the whole along with hints of iodine, soy, mint and tar leading to a rich palate that shows intensity and charm with red currant, damson plum, black cherry and lots of briar, licorice, mineral and cedar in the background, this is a wine of vivid personality and has a powerful presence, but with a velvety grip and controlled poise, make no mistake this wine is pure class and keeps faith with all that is held dear in the region, this wine is soulful Barolo, drink from 2014 to 2028.
($125-150 Est.) 97 Points, grapelive
avail at www.sfwtc.com ($125)