Massolino Barolo Parafada 2020

96 POINTS

Monica Larner - Robert Parker Wine Advocate

No one consistently interprets Serralunga d'Alba fruit as well as Franco and Roberto Massolino. Their 2020 Barolo Parafada is an exceptional wine that doles out elegant tones of iron, rusty metal, blood orange and lavender. Parafada is a 1.2-hectare plot, and annual production is around 4,800 bottles. The high alcohol content (measured at 15%) presents a small distraction, but otherwise this wine is very tight, supple and almost glossy in texture.

96 POINTS

James Suckling

Notes of dried raspberries, cherries, dried orange peel and ground spices. Some tar. Medium-bodied, structured and firm, with polished tannins. I like the energy and length here. Round and refined with a bright finish. So well done. Drink after 2027.

96 POINTS

Aldo Fiordelli - Decanter

Parafada is a small MGA in a basin with full south, east and west exposures. Massolino's interpretation is surgical: super-zesty with earthy strawberry, liquorice, fresh violet and a Pinot-like elegance. The palate shows a richness with juicy, brilliant acidity, silky tannins and an amazing finish with blood orange vibrancy. Graceful, with good strength for ageing.

94 POINTS

Jeff Porter - Wine Enthusiast

This Barolo enchants with a captivating blend of herbal notes, featuring dried thyme, rosemary, and a hint of mint. Tart red fruits, such as sour cherry and red currant, intertwine with enticing spices like cinnamon and clove. The palate is generous and round, offering ample flavors of ripe red berries, fresh herbs, and a subtle earthiness reminiscent of damp forest floor. Pleasant, well-integrated tannins provide structure, while the harmonious balance between herbal elements, fruit, and earth creates a truly pretty expression of Nebbiolo. Drink 2025-2040.

93 POINTS

Antonio Galloni MW - Vinous

The 2020 Barolo Parafada is a delicate, focused wine. Bright red fruit, mint, white pepper and crushed herbs are all nicely delineated. This mid-weight, nervy Barolo is all class and very approachable now, but it needs time to be at its finest.