Massolino Barbaresco 2021

Massolino Barbaresco is a Nebbiolo from the Barbaresco DOCG in Piedmont, made by a family estate better known for its Barolo in Serralunga d'Alba. Nebbiolo is the late-ripening grape behind both appellations; in Barbaresco the calcareous marl soils and slightly milder, earlier-ripening conditions give a wine that keeps Nebbiolo's structure but reads as more approachable than Barolo. Farming is sustainable. The wine was aged for 18 months in oak barrels, which allows slow oxygen exchange to resolve Nebbiolo's tannins and integrate the fruit without masking it. The grape is naturally high in both tannin and acidity, and the long ageing is essential to bring it into balance. The colour is pale garnet, lighter than the depth of flavour suggests. The nose is classic Nebbiolo, with cherry, dried rose, tobacco, leather and a savoury, earthy edge. The palate is structured and savoury, with firm, fine-grained tannins, high acidity and a long finish of liquorice and dried herbs. It can be enjoyed now with food or cellared for further development. Serve at 17 to 18C, decanting an hour ahead. It pairs with braised beef, game and aged cheese.