Viniou Reviews
The 2004 Barolo Monprivato from Giuseppe Mascarello is a remarkable example of Nebbiolo at its most refined and expressive. This vintage, sourced from the famed Monprivato vineyard, showcases all the hallmarks of top-tier Barolo: delicate yet complex aromas of rose petal, dried cherry, tar, and subtle truffle, supported by vibrant acidity and a long, elegant tannic structure. The 2004 year offered favourable conditions—a cooler growing season allowed for slow, even ripening, producing a wine of notable balance, finesse, and longevity. Winemaking at Mascarello emphasises tradition; fermentation in wooden vats followed by extended ageing in large Slavonian oak casks integrates the tannins and preserves the nuanced aromatics inherent to Nebbiolo.
Barolo hails from the heart of Piedmont, a region in north-western Italy revered for its long viticultural heritage. Nestled among rolling hills, the area benefits from a continental climate moderated by the Alps, with hot summers, cold winters, and frequent autumn fogs that are said to define the Nebbiolo grape’s character. Soils here are primarily calcareous marl, lending structure and complexity to the wines. The Barolo zone, around the village of the same name, has been famed since the 19th century for producing “the king of wines”, highly prized by the Savoy aristocracy.
When it comes to food pairing, Barolo’s bold yet ethereal profile is a perfect match for hearty northern Italian cuisine. Traditional Piedmontese dishes like brasato al Barolo (beef braised in Barolo wine), tajarin al tartufo (egg-rich pasta with white truffle), or agnolotti del plin (stuffed pasta) are especially well-suited. The wine’s tannic grip and acidity also work beautifully with game, porcini mushrooms, and aged cheeses such as Castelmagno.
For serving, decant the Monprivato 2004 for at least one to two hours to allow it to unfurl its bouquet. Ideal tasting temperature is 18°C—this will best reveal its complexity, finesse and aromatic depth. Enjoy it now or cellar for further evolution; it remains a testament to Barolo’s age-worthiness and class.
