Massolino Vigna Rionda Riserva Barolo 2019

Vigna Rionda is historically the most revered vineyard of Serralunga and the source of some of the greatest, finest and longest-lived Barolo. The Massolino family is the largest holder in this Cru, with 3.5 hectares of Vigna Rionda vines between 40 and 50 years old. On some of the oldest soils of Barolo, there is very little topsoil here, with a high concentration of limestone, oxidised iron and other mineral elements. The altitude is also 300 metres above sea level, with protection from northerly winds and frost provided by the south/southwest aspect.

It’s a vineyard that generates wines with an optimum balance of perfume, finesse, concentration and structure, rarely found elsewhere in Barolo. Excellent acidity and tannins are a feature of Vigna Rionda wines, so they require longer aging in both botti and bottle. That’s why Massolino’s Vigna Rionda is always released with a minimum five years of age. Importer’s notes.

2019 – another Classic vintage. Here the soil has a streak of manganese and iron which imparts more power and complexity to the wine. Clay, limestone and limestone is quite compacted. Intense nose, five spice, hints of balsamic. Very firm and tight. The fruit is hiding behind the tannins. Chalky firm and powerful. The ironstone notes flows from top to bottom. WOW - cellar minimum of 10 years. Ian Cook, Five Way Cellars.

The Massolino 2019 Barolo Riserva Vigna Rionda is quite special in that it offers dark fruit, tar, campfire ash and burnt ember. It shows the power and heft of the vintage with the concentration, although in appearance, the wine is shiny and bright. It has a very beautiful mouthfeel with a glossy sheen to the tannins. In fact, the palate is the best part of this expertly crafted Riserva. It comes together with more dark fruit and savory tobacco. Drink 2026 – 2045, 97 pts, Monica Larner, The Wine Advocate