24 Jan Franco Massolino and Massolino Winery
I had the privilege to meet Franco Massolino upon his last visit to Los Angeles. Charming and friendly, Franco’s passion about his wines and the region that they are from is infectious. Having lived in Piemonte, Italy, I have a natural affinity for the wines from that region. And once you meet Franco and taste his wines, you are captured by the beauty and structure of Massolino wines.
Massolino Winery was established in 1896 by Giovanni Massolino. Located in the Langhe area of Piedmont, they have been making great wine for four generations. Giovanni’s son Giuseppe built the winery in Serralunga d’Alba, one of the most important villages in the production of Barolo DOCG. Giovanni and his brother Renato, who shared responsibilities, acquired some of the most prestigious cru vineyard sites in Serralunga d’Alba.
In 1994, Giovanni’s son Franco joined the family business. With his brother Roberto, they produce beautiful wines that both respect tradition and embrace modernity. The concentrated and structured, yet elegant wines represent the terroir of the Langhe.
Massolino produces approximately 120,000 bottles (10,000 cases) each year, including Chardonnay, Dolcetto d’Alba, Barbera d’Alba, Nebbiolo d’Alba, Moscato d’Asti, and Barolo. They produce one classic Barolo and four Cru Barolo wines: Parussi, Parafada, Margheria, and Vigna Rionda.
Massolino Barolo Riserva ‘Vigna Rionda’ 2007, Barolo, Piemonte
Deep garnet in color, this wine has great structure and intensity and notes of rose and truffle
Massolino Barolo ‘Margheria’ 2007, Roero, Piemonte
An intense and powerful wine, the nose has beautiful rose petal and floral notes and is elegant and savory on the palate
Massolino Barolo ‘Parussi’ 2007, Barolo, Piemonte
Deep garnet red, the nose has notes of sweet spice, tobacco and leather and the palate is structured and balanced