1999 Giuseppe Mascarello, Barolo, Monprivato (RT96+) First bottle from a case bought on release. Cork pulled midday and Slow O’d, then served directly from bottle. There’s much to love about such a spectacular wine starting with its incredible clarity, revealing a lighter side of Barolo with nary an iota of sediment. The bouquet shows freshness and youth that belies its 15 years of age. Notes of rich, perfectly ripe fruit waft from the glass with geraniums, red raspberries and a pronounced minerality initially grab your attention. With time in the glass the high pitched aromas firm up and deepen, showing an increased richness that allows the firm, but fine grained tannins to punctuate the finish. ’99 Monprivato is a true star of the vintage, a vintage which continues to impress! Drink 2014-2029+
