2017 Giuseppe Mascarello Barolo Villero

The 2017 Barolo Villero is visibly darker with opulent fruit, blackberry confit, potting soil and licorice. The wine is layered and bold, but it also shows a soft side with sweet fruit that spreads evenly over the palate. The 2017 vintage is similar to 2015, both are considered hot and dry growing seasons, delivering ripeness and textural weight. The main difference would be that 2015 had more structure, and 2017 has more plush layering. 95 points

Castiglione Falletto. They used to buy the grapes from this small parcel in Villero, and then they bought the plot in 1980. Up to 20 days on the skins and aged for 36 months in 20- and 25-hl oak casks. Cherry and dried fruit with hints of eucalyptus. Great lift on the nose. Sweet youthful fruit palate with long fine tannins and supple acidity. Great balance and with mineral notes on the finish. Fantastic effort which defies the torrid vintage. 17.5 Points