Massolino Langhe Nebbiolo, DOC, 2017, Piemonte, Italy

Our View:

This Langhe from Massolino is an approachable nebbiolo that is well balanced and ready to drink now. It offers its best expression when served with rich and tasty dishes, from fresh pasta with rich meat of vegetables sauces, to grilled or roast red meat dishes. It is also excellent with soft and delicate blue cheeses.

A taste of Italy to enjoy from an established family in Piemonte who have been making wines in the region since 1896. 

The Wine:

The grapes for this wine come from several vineyards in Serralunga d'Alba, situated at 340 metres above sea level and covering 2.1 hectares. The vines are Guyot trained and are approximately 10-12 years old, planted at a density of 5,500 vines per hectare. Soils are mixed but predominantly limestone. The 2017 growing season was short. The grapes had outstanding concentration when they came to be harvested manually in the second half of October and excellent levels of acidity that balance the high levels of alcohol. 

After 8-10 days of temperature-controlled fermentation (31-34ºC) in stainless-steel tanks, the wine was aged in traditional 'botti' or large casks for over a year. Massolino's aim was to make an approachable style of Nebbiolo which can be enjoyed without overwhelming the drinker. 

Tasting Note:

It is best to decant and serve it at temperatures between 18-20°C. In the glass, this Nebbiolo is ruby in colour with a hint of purple. Notes of violet, raspberry and redcurrant are supported by hints of cherry liqueur and subtle spices. On the palate, this wine shows gentle and elegant tannins, well balanced by bright acidity. (Vegan & Vegetarian). 

The Facts:

What the critics say:

92 Points: 

"A very impressive array of blueberries, raspberry tea and ripe strawberries. The medium-bodied palate is quite soft and supple, though, and it ends medium-long and medium to very chewy. Drink now". 

James Suckling

91 Points: 

"The 2017...is an elegant, refined take on Nebbiolo, with bright and tonic fruit that just makes it a fun wine. The grapes used are from a selection of sites located in Monforte d'Alba and Serralunga d'Alba. There's an easy structure to the Langhe Nebbiolo, a freshness and very bright appearance that area easy to love. For this one, see if you can get your hands on some Bra sausage".

Robert Parker