2022 BARTOLO MASCARELLO BAROLO DOCG

(96 Points) Set for release in the fall of 2026, the 2022 Barolo pours a youthful ruby red color with a light orange tinge. On the nose, it opens with cherries, anise, and menthol. On the palate, it’s grippy and structured, revealing dry extract, orange peel, and cranberries, with warmth kept in check by a bright spine of acidity. Despite a very challenging season, thoughtful assemblage across vineyards played a key role in the wine’s success, with Canubi severely reduced in yield while Rue came closer to normal in both quantity and character. Production was down significantly, with just under normal levels bottled. There are roughly 11,000 bottles produced, which is a decrease in production by nearly 7500 bottles for them. This is not a classic vintage, but it’s a convincing and successful one for the estate’s practice of blending from across the region and their holdings. Drink 2027-2042. (AF) Jeb Dunnuck, Review Date: 04/2026