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massolino, barolo, vignarionda riserva 2012
JAMES SUCKLING
94
WINE ENTHUSIAST
98

2012 massolino, barolo, vignarionda riserva

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Why We're Buying

Massolino Barolo Vigna Rionda Riserva hails from one of the region's most cherished vineyards. The potent offering unfurls with deep lawyers of earthiness, berries, and waiflike tannins. As wine critic Robert Parker described it, "this is the ace in Massolino's rotation."

Critics Scores

JAMES SUCKLING
94

James Suckling

Aromas of tea, coffee and dried strawberries follow through to a full body. Has an energetic palate with polished and lively tannins that coat your mouth. Needs a few years to soften but very attractive already.

WINE ENTHUSIAST
98

Wine Enthusiast

Underbrush, new leather, forest berry, dark spice and a whiff of fragrant blue flower are just some of the aromas you'll encounter on this gorgeous, multifaceted red. Structured but exceedingly elegant, the delicious palate delivers juicy Marasca cherry, raspberry compote, licorice and tobacco. It's impeccably balanced, with noble tannins that lend tension and a velvety texture. Drink 2022–2032. *Cellar Selection* (KO)

VINOUS
95

Vinous

Readers will find a silky, nuanced Barolo in the 2012 Riserva Vigna Rionda. Rose water, orange zest, cinnamon, sage, mint and dried cherry are some of the many nuances that give the 2012 its aromatic top notes, and all of the elements fall into place effortlessly. Relatively open-knit for a young Rionda, this should drink well with minimal cellaring. The 2012 doesn't quite have the explosive energy of vintages like 2010, 2013 or 2014, but it will offer tons of pleasure sooner than any of those wines. I loved it. (AG)

WINE SPECTATOR
93

Wine Spectator

Emphasizes flavors of underbrush, wild herb and leather, yet offers a baseline of ripe fruit. Prominent dusty tannins tip the balance toward the dry side. In a difficult phase, but I would give this the benefit of the doubt. Best from 2023 through 2042.

ROBERT PARKER'S WINE ADVOCATE
94

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

I always look forward to tasting this wine. Massolino truly captures the heart and spirit of Serralunga d'Alba, thanks to this special single-vineyard selection. The 2012 Barolo Riserva Vigna Rionda hails from a warm vintage, and the wine transmits that warmth and opulence in a very natural and transparent manner. Both the bouquet and the mouthfeel show a very successful level of integration. The dark fruit is linked immediately to spice and smoke. The tannins finish on a polished, silky note. (ML)