Bartolo Mascarello Barolo

Bartolo Mascarello was famously, and fiercely, opposed to the modern use of small French oak barrels, known as barriques. He insisted on aging his Nebbiolo wines exclusively in large, old, neutral Slavonian oak casks. He believed small, toasted barrels imparted unwanted vanilla flavors that masked the natural, earthy terroir of the grapes.

No, Bartolo Mascarello is one of the very last traditionalists who refuses to bottle single-vineyard Barolos. Instead, they famously blend Nebbiolo grapes from four specific, historic vineyard sites located within the commune of Barolo. The family believes that blending these distinct plots (Cannubi, San Lorenzo, Rue, and Rocche) creates a much more balanced and complete wine.

Bartolo Mascarello was known for his strong political views and his dedication to traditional Italian winemaking. He hand-drew a label for a special bottling that featured the slogan 'No Barrique, no Berlusconi.' This phrase served as a protest against both the modernizing trend of using French barriques in Barolo and the controversial political leadership of former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi.

Because of the traditional, extended maceration methods used, Bartolo Mascarello Barolo is incredibly tannic and austere in its youth. Collectors highly recommend cellaring the wine for a minimum of 10 to 15 years post-vintage before opening it. With proper storage, these wines will continue to evolve and develop complex notes of tar, dried roses, and truffle for up to 40 years.