2014 Giuseppe Mascarello e Figlio Barolo Monprivato
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Tasting notes
The 2014 Barolo Monprivato is one of the finest Barolos I have tasted from the Mascarello family in a number of years. That is all the more remarkable considering a challenging growing season in which conditions were so tough that Mauro Mascarello did not want to show me his vineyard that summer. In the glass, though, the 2014 is gorgeous. Perfumed, bright and gracious, the 2014 captures all the best that was possible. Sage, mint, lavender and dark red/purplish berries add nuance to this super-expressive, transparent Barolo. Although the 2014 is not an epic Monprivato, it is a very beautiful wine. More importantly, let's hope it represents a return to the level of quality that was the norm at this reference-point estate up until 2009.
Critic scores
Tim Jackson MW, jancisrobinson.com
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Mascarello's legendary cru, from this historic 15-acre, southwest-facing plot not far from the town of Castiglione Falletto, never disappoints. The 2014 Barolo Monprivato is as engaging and as individual as I had hoped it would be. Still in its youth, the bouquet reaches out with wild berry and strawberry, and it has started to show unique tones of natural rubber, tropical fruit and peach—not at all what you might expect from a Nebbiolo, but very delicate and elegant nonetheless. Like every Monprivato vintage, it will take years in the bottle to reach its full potential. Still very closed, this one will only just begin to open after the summer.
Pale garnet. Youthful, scented red cherry and nutty oak nose, with some spice. Juicy, crunchy red cherry and cranberry, nutty spice and some dried herb. Peppery, fairly firm, primary tannins. Not close to ready yet. (TJ)