Giuseppe Mascarello e Figlio, Barolo, Monprivato 2018

Translucent ruby, the 2018 Barolo Monprivato is open and giving in its perfume of dried apricot, orange peel, saline earth, and raspberry. It is medium-bodied, with ultra-fine tannins, it is an elegant red revealing notes of wild strawberries, cardamom, and salty soil. A very pretty style, it is drinking beautifully now. Drink 2023-2040.

The Giuseppe Mascarello 2018 Barolo Monprivato reveals an open and accessible personality. This wine is an immediate charmer. I tasted these wines with the Mascarello family seated across the table from me, and during our chat, they explained that this was a gratifying vintage in terms of farming and winemaking. The growing season was not too hot, and high alcohol levels were not an issue, they say. In the case of this wine, we are greeted to mild tannins and a pretty bouquet with delicate floral notes, smoke and tar.