Bartolo Mascarello

The late, great Bartolo Mascarello, who joined the family firm in 1945, was the most steadfast defender of traditional local production practices, including co-fermenting/blending fruit from varied parcels and ageing only in large botti—his highly collectible, hand-painted 'no barrique no Berlusconi' label reflects his staunch political and philosophical concerns. Despite being labelled a has-been by some critics and peers, who lamented his commitment to ‘traditional’ Barolo amidst the rise of changing styles, Bartolo eventually received great recognition in 2002 by a leading Italian wine guide who praised his ethereal wines.

In 1993, Bartolo’s daughter, Maria Teresa had joined him at work, twelve years later she began running the cantina. Since then, Maria Teresa has delicately refined production techniques, replanted old vines, leased a new vineyard, and further strengthened the cantina's global renown. Barolo aside—a quintessential example with woody spices, bright cherry and grippy tannins—drinkers should also pay close attention to Maria Teresa's delicious Langhe Freisa, which is occasionally effervescent and consistently moreish!