Wines Barolo Giuseppe Mascarello - Monprivato - 2004

Viniou Reviews

The 2004 Barolo Monprivato from Giuseppe Mascarello stands as one of the crown jewels of Piedmontese winemaking. Crafted entirely from Nebbiolo grown in the famed Monprivato cru, this wine epitomises both varietal and vineyard expression. The 2004 vintage in Barolo was marked by a balanced growing season with optimal ripening conditions, resulting in wines of remarkable elegance and ageing potential. Mascarello's traditional vinification methods, including lengthy maceration and large, neutral oak maturation, allow the purity of Nebbiolo to shine and the unique character of Monprivato’s terroir to express itself fully. In the glass, expect a garnet hue and perfumed aromas of rose petals, dried cherries, violets, tar, and subtle earthy undertones. On the palate, the wine strikes a compelling balance between silky texture, fine tannins, vibrant acidity, and layers of red fruit, truffle, liquorice, and a persistent mineral finish.

Piedmont, and specifically the Barolo DOC area, is renowned for producing some of Italy’s most age-worthy reds. The region benefits from a continental climate, with cold winters and warm, dry summers, which aid in slow, even ripening of Nebbiolo grapes. The soils of Monprivato, rich in calcareous marl with traces of clay and gypsum, lend the wine its notable structure and complex aromatics. Barolo’s winemaking history dates back centuries, intertwining local tradition with a deep respect for terroir and grape typicity.

Such a majestic Barolo pairs beautifully with classic Piemontese dishes like brasato al Barolo (beef braised in wine), agnolotti del plin, or white truffle-laced tagliolini. Its formidable structure and aromatic finesse also make it an excellent partner for game, slow-cooked lamb, wild mushroom risotto, or aged cheeses such as Parmigiano Reggiano or Castelmagno.

For maximum enjoyment, decant the wine at least two hours prior to serving to allow its complex bouquet to fully unfurl. Serve at a temperature of 17-18°C. Given its pedigree and ageing potential, this 2004 Monprivato can be enjoyed now for its harmonious maturity, or cellared further for deeper development.