Cru Barolo; silky and seductive

The popularity of Italy's finest wines grows steadily, now that they are better than they ever have been, and more easily obtainable, they are finally gaining the recognition they deserve. In Barolo the juxtaposition of two distinct schools of producer complicates matters and is both marked and controversial. Some influential publications still laud the thick, extracted wines of the modernists, while we prefer the pure, aromatic wines of traditionalists like Uncorked favourite Giuseppe Mascarello. In 2009 Giuseppe and sister Elena have crafted a superb Monprivato, which this year includes all the fruit from the Ca d'Morrissio mini 'grand cru' vineyard.

2009 has given us lovely Nebbiolo, already showing very nicely and it is a wine you'll be able to enjoy relatively young - while you are waiting for some of the previous vintages. As ever we have a reasonably generous allocation, but as ever we expect this vintage to disappear quickly. If you haven't had much Barolo before, this makes a great, approachable vintage to have medium term in the cellar. If you have, you'll appreciate the early drinkability.

Given how many of our Burgundy loving customers also collect Barolo, and the likely price and availability of upcoming vintages, a little investment in wines like this may be an excellent move.

Other vintages of Mauro Mascarello's wines are available in the shop.