Author: Dirk Chan
Our online feature this week is the Mauro Molino Barbera d’Alba (Piedmont, Italy) – $22.99, regularly $27.99.
Established in 1953, the Azienda Agricola Molino is located near the ancient abbey of S. Martino di Marcenasco and includes one of the most famous crus of the Langhe, “Vigna Conca”, among its vineyards. The estate is run since 1978, year of the death of the founder Giuseppe, by his son Mauro, an oenologist certified at the well known Oenology Institute of Alba. Mauro, due to the experience acquired in various estates in northern Italy, has given a big impulse towards the production of high quality wines.
The youngest generation run the estate – Matteo Molino and his younger sister Martina, have taken over the reins from their father, Mauro, who took over from his father in the early 1970s. Since then, the young sibling team have guided Molino into new international markets travelling to places like Australia, allowing people to discover their impeccable wines made as sustainably as possible.
The company continues to produce wines in Annunziata of La Morra, in the utmost respect of traditions. The total area amounts to 12 hectares, 50% of which is meant for Nebbiolo for Barolo. The rest is devoted to the production of Barbera d’Alba, Dolcetto d’Alba and, in a smaller quantity, of Roero Arneis.
Our feature this week is their Barbera d’Alba, with its upfront and immediately vibrant cherries and a hint of citrus peel. Violets, black tea and chalk all make appearances on the charming nose. So much to love about the palate, it’s soft and juicy, yet fine and long. Not tannic at all, just lightly framed and lovely with fine finesse. Try with a charcuterie plate.
Mauro Molino Barbera d’Alba (Piedmont, Italy) – $22.99, regularly $27.99.