1990 Barolo Mariondino
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Tasting notes
From a two-hectare cru, the 1990 Barolo Mariondino is (and I believe always has been) the only single-vineyard expression made from this site. Mariondino has loose, sandy soils and is a little cooler on average (with annual temperature similar to Villero). As a result, it performs well in warm vintages like 1990, especially if yields are kept low. This is a beautifully expressive Barolo with bright tones of candied peach, crushed blue flower, licorice and balsam herb. Brother and sister team Marco and Tiziana Parusso demonstrate that their wines have the depth and personality for long cellar aging. The tannins are sharply delineated and the fresh acidity instills confidence for longer cellar evolution. Drink: 2014-2026.
Critic scores
Average Score
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Monica Larner, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
The 1990 Barolo Mariondino, also tasted from magnum, reveals an additional degree of plumpness and sweetness than the 1989, but without that wine's compelling bouquet. By 1990 Parusso had increased the percentage of new French oak, and as a result, the tannins are a touch dry on the finish. Still, the 1990 has enough density and richness to continue to drink well for at least another decade. Stylistically, I have a slight preference for the 1989 here.