Mascarello/Bartolo Barolo 2017

96 points Aldo Fiordelli (Decanter): “In 2015, Maria-Teresa Mascarello uprooted the estate’s San Lorenzo vines, which no longer feature in this impressive blend. The 2017, as with the exceptional 2016, instead includes grapes from Monrobiolo di Bussia. Harvest was completed on 23 September, more or less two weeks earlier than average. In the winery, the maceration was reduced from the usual 40-50 days to 20. Subdued rose and tar notes are joined by a leafy lightness, then a crystalline definition of red berries in both aroma and flavour. Velvety tannins and assertive acidity hold the wine in tension and balance, powered by orange savouriness. It’s more delicate and less extracted than 2016, but with similar ageing potential. Released in September 2021. Drinking Window: 2021-2040. (Mar 2021)”

94 points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): “The 2017 Barolo is gracious, perfumed and very nicely lifted. An effusive, floral bouquet opens first, followed by a rush of red berry fruit. Nervous, a bit wiry at this stage, the 2017 is going to need at least a few years to fully open, but all the elements are in place to allow that to happen. Maria Teresa Mascarello’s Barolo is one of the most elegant and restrained wines of the year. It’s not an immediately impressive or captivating wine at this stage. The purity of the flavors is just striking, though. Give it a few years to blossom. Drink: 2025-2042. (Feb 2021)”