2020 Mauro Molino Barolo Organic, Piedmont

Spiced and racy Barolo with ripe red berries, spices, sandalwood and hints of white pepper. Medium-bodied with a dusty texture to its tannins and vivid acidity. Textural and polished, with citrus peel character at the end. Already attractive to drink, but better after two to three years.

92 points James Suckling

La Morra's prestigious vineyards provide the foundation for Mauro Molino's organic Barolo, where traditional Piedmontese winemaking meets sustainable farming practices on some of Nebbiolo's most revered slopes. The 2020 vintage proved exceptional across Piedmont, delivering wines of remarkable power balanced by elegance and finesse. Molino's commitment to organic viticulture enhances the pure expression of terroir, crafting a Barolo that honors centuries of tradition while embracing modern sustainability principles.

Deep garnet with brick tinged edges, the wine opens with classic Nebbiolo aromatics: red cherry, dried rose petals and violet mingle with tar, leather and forest floor. There's a beautiful complexity emerging, hints of truffle, tobacco leaf and licorice adding layers, while subtle notes of cedar, vanilla and baking spice speak to careful oak integration. The palate is full bodied yet refined, offering concentrated red fruit flavors of cherry, raspberry and cranberry over structured, age worthy tannins. Bright acidity provides backbone and longevity, driving a persistent finish marked by mineral, earth and spice that will evolve gracefully for decades.

Serve alongside braised short ribs with Barolo reduction, where the wine's power and earthiness create perfect harmony, or try roasted lamb with rosemary and garlic that echoes its herbal notes. The Barolo pairs magnificently with aged Parmigiano Reggiano, truffle risotto, or osso buco alla Milanese with saffron. Game dishes like venison medallions with juniper, wild boar ragu with pappardelle, or roasted pheasant with pancetta all complement the wine's intensity. Rich mushroom dishes, aged Gorgonzola or Pecorino Romano provide compelling companions for this structured, cellar worthy expression.