Vigna Rionda is historically the most revered vineyard of Serralunga and the source of some of the greatest, finest and long-lived Barolo. The Massolino family are the largest holders in Vigna Rionda with 3.5 hectares (two planted to Nebbiolo) of vines between 40 and 50 years old. The soil here is similar to the Parafada vineyard (limey/chalky marls), yet it is deeper again, with more chalk and a higher concentration of minerals and oxidised iron elements. The altitude is 330 metres above sea level, and the protection from northern winds and frost that the south/southwest aspect affords means that Vigna Rionda has a longer growing season than the other Crus.
All these factors combine to produce a terroir that generates wines with an optimum balance of perfume, finesse and structure rarely found elsewhere in Barolo. They also produce wines with excellent acidity and tannins that require longer aging in both botti and bottle, and that is why it is always released with a minimum six years of age.
2014 was the first vintage that Massolino’s Vigna Rionda was fermented in large wooden cask. It spent 20 days on skins and 40 months in botti. It’s simply a gorgeous, layered and complex Barolo of the highest order. Already a brilliant drink, it will be even better in three to five years.
“The 2014 Barolo Riserva Vigna Rionda is a stunning wine. Sweet, perfumed and deep, the 2014 is off-the-charts great. Dark red and purplish berry fruit, mint, lavender, spice and hard candy infuse the 2014 with striking layers of nuance. But what really impresses about the 2014 is its depth and huge vertical build. All the elements fall into place in a sumptuous, deep Barolo that screams with character. Beams of tannin punctuate the finish. Massolino’s 2014 is one of the greatest Vigna Riondas I have ever tasted.” 98+ points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous
