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SKU 794913
$77.52/bottle
Out of stock
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95 Massolino 2012 Parafada (Barolo). A textbook Barolo, this opens with scents of mature berry, leather, underbrush, tobacco and an elegant trace of fragrant blue flower. The well-structured palate delivers succulent black cherry, crushed raspberry, cinnamon, licorice, clove and mineral alongside a backbone of firm yet refined tannins. Drink 2020–2030. (Cellar Selection)
The Nebbiolo grape varietal is widely understood to be the fruit responsible for Italy's finest aged wines. However, its popularity and reliability as a grape which gives out outstanding flavors and aromas has led it to be planted in many countries around the world, with much success. These purple grapes are distinguishable by the fact that they take on a milky dust as they begin to reach maturity, leading many to claim that this is the reason for their unusual name, which means 'fog' in Italian. Nebbiolo grapes produce wines which have a wide range of beautiful and fascinating flavors, the most common of which are rich, dark and complex, such as violet, truffle, tobacco and prunes. They are generally aged for many years to balance out their characteristics, as their natural tannin levels tend to be very high.
Country
Italy
There are few countries in the world with a viticultural history as long or as illustrious as that claimed by Italy. Grapes were first being grown and cultivated on Italian soil several thousand years ago by the Greeks and the Pheonicians, who named Italy 'Oenotria' – the land of wines – so impressed were they with the climate and the suitability of the soil for wine production. Of course, it was the rise of the Roman Empire which had the most lasting influence on wine production in Italy, and their influence can still be felt today, as much of the riches of the empire came about through their enthusiasm for producing wines and exporting it to neighbouring countries. Since those times, a vast amount of Italian land has remained primarily for vine cultivation, and thousands of wineries can be found throughout the entire length and breadth of this beautiful country, drenched in Mediterranean sunshine and benefiting from the excellent fertile soils found there. Italy remains very much a 'land of wines', and one could not imagine this country, its landscape and culture, without it.
Region
Piedmont
Situated in the north-western part of Italy, the region of Piedmont is known worldwide and is highly respected for the quality of the wines produced there. Many of the most successful sub-regions in Piedmont produce many of the world's finest red wines, such as those made from the excellent Nebbiolo grape varietal in areas such as Barolo and Barbaresco. However, the historic wineries which typify this region use a relatively wide variety of grapes, including Dolcetto and Barbera for their red wines, which are typically aged and have a delightful velvety character. Piedmont isn't all about beautifully complex red wines, though, as it is also famed for high quality, elegant sparkling wines, notably the Asti wines made with the white Moscato grape. The region benefits from a range of terroirs which are often well expressed in the sparkling wines, and a wonderfully consistent climate ideal for vineyard cultivation.
Appellation
Barolo
Barolo’s star grape is Nebbiolo, a finicky yet expressive variety that reaches its zenith this unique terroir. The region’s distinct microclimates and soils contribute to Nebbiolo’s complexity, resulting in wines with robust tannins, high acidity, and exceptional aging potential. Barolo wines, often referred to as “the king of wines,” are characterized by their deep garnet hue and complex bouquet, offering aromas of roses, tar, truffles, and red fruit. The aging process is significant, requiring at least 38 months, with a minimum of 18 months spent in wooden casks. This meticulous craftsmanship results in wines that evolve beautifully over time, displaying a harmonious balance of power and finesse. For wine enthusiasts, exploring Barolo provides a captivating journey into the rich tapestry of Italian winemaking, showcasing the profound marriage of tradition, terroir, and Nebbiolo’s distinctive expression.
WS95pts
Wine Spectator
A spicy version, with a core of cherry, strawberry, licorice and tar flavors that is well-defined on a lithe body. Sleek and racy, this resonates on the long finish, showing mineral and floral notes. Detailed and expressive. Best from 2020 through 2035. 515 cases made.
WE95pts
Wine Enthusiast
95 Massolino 2012 Parafada (Barolo). A textbook Barolo, this opens with scents of mature berry, leather, underbrush, tobacco and an elegant trace of fragrant blue flower. The well-structured palate delivers succulent black cherry, crushed raspberry, cinnamon, licorice, clove and mineral alongside a backbone of firm yet refined tannins. Drink 2020–2030. (Cellar Selection)
WA93pts
Wine Advocate
The 2012 Barolo Parafada carries broad shoulders and a heavier gait. This wine leaves a lasting footprint, thanks to its aromas of dark fruit, pressed cherry, smoke, tobacco and toasted spice. The wine stands out for its textural richness and its important structure that keeps everything else locked down in place.
JS93pts
James Suckling
A 2012 with plenty of fruit and spice character including chili and red pepper. Full body, firm and silky tannins and a long and flavorful finish. Very polished tannins. Lasts for minutes. Better in 2019 when the tannins slightly soften.
VM92pts
Vinous Media
The 2012 Barolo Parafada is the deepest of the Massolino Barolos. Dark red cherry, plum, spice, mint and licorice are fused together. Texturally, the Parafada is dense and beautifully textured, with a lovely sense of inner poise that gives the wine its direction. Naturally, the Parafada is a bit tight today. It will be interesting to see how much it blossoms in bottle.
Winery Notes
Color: Deep garnet red with bright hues which naturally evolve with age.
Bouquet: Intense, very complex, offering a wide range of notes; with remarkable red fruit combined with floral and spicy hints. Especially after a few years of aging, this Barolo shows all the elegance and charm that only Nebbiolo grapes can offer.
Tasting Notes: Robust, rich and austere. It perfectly reflects the great complexity of the soil in Serralunga d’Alba. The perfect Barolo for long ageing. It is best to decant and serve it at temperatures between 18-20°C (64°-68°F). The elegant companion for important rice and pasta dishes, such as risotto cooked in Barolo, and rich and tasty main courses, such as roast meats. After a few years of ageing, this Barolo expresses its considerable potential just as well when sipped as a wine for thought and served with hard and medium-hard cheeses.
