WTN: 1999 Bartolo Mascarello Barolo

[David M. Bueker]

1999 Bartolo Mascarello Barolo - Italy, Piedmont, Langhe, Barolo (12/20/2014)
This was still very young, but 30 minutes of air in the glass did the trick, allowing all the classic Barolo elements to come out. The wine was floral, fruity, leathery, earthy and just a pleasure to drink. I'm sad it's gone but I don't regret drinking it with good food and good friends.

At first I thought you were writing up the Monprivato, which I have had but not this 1999 Mascarello. However, the 2000 from this producer, which I had a couple of months ago was stunning. That was the one and only time I had a Bartolo wine. I would like more, but his prices are getting steep. The wine sounds lovely.

[David M. Bueker]

Looking at my records, I paid $75 for this in 2005. The 2008 went for $115. Expensive for sure, but not nearly the inflation seen for other wines.

Looking at my records, I paid $75 for this in 2005. The 2008 went for $115. Expensive for sure, but not nearly the inflation seen for other wines.

I just saw someone selling the '09 for $120 something. As you say, expensive but not compared to other regions (ahem Burgundy!)

[David M. Bueker]

My local shop held the line on the 2009 at $115. Hard to applaud "restraint" but there you have it.

I think '99 Barolos are drinking surprisingly well, though good ones should age.
It really wasn't that long ago that Bartolo was about $40.