Introducing a new chapter in the Massolino family’s Langhe Nebbiolo story. Two Barbaresco wines from the captivating and enchanting land of Neive.
We have always been passionate about Barbaresco, a Nebbiolo expression that we consider unique in its elegance and finesse. As a vine, we know Nebbiolo well. It is a variety that can be interpreted like few others: sensitive and closely linked to its terroir. We have long dreamt of challenging ourselves with winemaking in Barbaresco, looking for vineyards that allow us to do just that. In 2019, the opportunity arrived!
Neive: A dream come true
The tale of our Barbaresco project begins with the ambition to measure ourselves against the production of this prestigious wine, interpreting the variety with respect to and in accordance with our signature Massolino style. The idea took shape by chance – or better still, by good fortune – thanks to an encounter with Bernardino Gastaldi, a historical and ambitious Neive winemaker with parcels in three of Barbaresco’s most important MGAs: Albesani, Serraboella, and Starderi. His vineyard approach mirrors ours, which may be what convinced him to allow us to work his beautiful crus.
Save for a handful of historical cases, DOCG requirements dictate that Barbaresco wines be vinified in the classified Barbaresco winemaking area (the same is true for Barolo). Because of this, building a cellar to vinify and age our Barbaresco wines was part of our story. Smaller in stature, our efficient and mighty Barbaresco facility is built just like our main Serralunga d’Alba cellar where we welcome visitors.
Two Barbarescos expressing the Massolino style
We never worried that stepping outside of Barolo would result in a loss in focus on the wines that have characterized us for generations. In fact, we believe it challenges us by giving us a different perpective and experience.
Our signature Massolino style is immediately recognizable when you taste our Barbaresco. Our meticulous attention in the vineyards and respect for terroir and variety, allows us to fully realize our goals of bringing the world great and exclusive Langhe wine.
With deep pride we introduce our first Barbaresco vintage with two wines: Barbaresco DOCG and Barbaresco DOCG Albesani. The initial response has been electric, a true honor for our inaugural vintage. But more importantly for us, the reception affirms that we have beautifully integrated our Barbaresco wines with our portfolio.
Albesani: An iconic and unique Barbaresco
Our classic Barbaresco DOCG is the result of traditional, pure, and respectful vinification, blending grapes from all three vineyards.
At the same time, we chose to highlight our Albesani cru with separate vinification. Sitting atop a stunning hill facing south-west with 60-year-old vines, the exposition and age gives us a wine with more structure while keeping the same elegance. Barbaresco DOCG Albesani releases in September 2022.
The 2019 vintage was moderately warm, but able to achieve excellent freshness and a perfect balance, allowing us to release the first vintage of two top level wines.
Taste our Barbaresco!
If a visit to the Langhe is in your travel plans, we welcome you to visit here in Serralunga to taste these wines. And, if you are looking to try them at home, contact us directly.
