Bartolo Mascarello Barolo 2018 750ml

Bartolo Mascarello is one of the most iconic producers of Barolo, the prestigious wine made from Nebbiolo grapes in the Piedmont region of Italy. The Mascarello family's history in the wine business dates back to the early 20th century, but it was Bartolo, in particular, who became renowned for his steadfast traditionalism and commitment to crafting pure, authentic Barolo.

Here are a few notable aspects of Bartolo Mascarello and his wines:

Traditional Winemaking: Mascarello was a staunch advocate for traditional winemaking methods. This meant long fermentations in concrete tanks, aging in large Slavonian oak casks, and never using small barriques (small oak barrels) which became fashionable among many producers in the late 20th century.

Vineyard Sites: The Mascarello Barolo is a blend of different vineyards, mainly from Cannubi, San Lorenzo, Rue, and Rocche di La Morra. Each vineyard contributes different characteristics to the wine, resulting in a Barolo with remarkable depth and complexity.

Philosophy: Bartolo was known for his famous phrase: "No barrique, no Berlusconi", which was a statement against both the modernist winemaking trends and the Italian political situation at the time.

Legacy: After Bartolo's passing in 2005, his daughter Maria Teresa Mascarello took over the winery's operations. She continues the same traditional practices and philosophy of her father, ensuring the wines remain a true expression of Barolo's terroir.

Tasting Profile: Bartolo Mascarello Barolos are known for their elegance, depth, and longevity. They often have notes of tar, roses, cherries, and earth. With age, they develop additional complexities, making them highly sought after by collectors.

Cellaring Potential: Like many traditionally made Barolos, Bartolo Mascarello's wines are not only known to age gracefully but often require some years in the bottle to truly express themselves. They can be cellared for decades, with top vintages being capable of evolving and improving over 30 years or more.

If you have a chance to taste or purchase a bottle of Bartolo Mascarello Barolo, it's an opportunity to experience a wine that truly embodies the spirit and tradition of the Barolo region.