Forest floor, grilled herb, iris and camphor aromas appear in the glass. Combining structure and finesse, the firm palate delivers ripe Marasca cherry, raspberry compote, baking spice and licorice alongside tightly knit, fine-grained tannins. Drink 2025-2032.

The 2017 Barolo Parafada has pure aromas of dried red cherry, tar, cinnamon, and dried roses. There is lift on the palate with pomegranate, tobacco, and dried orange zest. The tannins are firm, though not a touch more linear than some of the other sites, with a bit more approachability now. Drink 2023-2042.

The 2017 Barolo Parafada comes across as compact and closed in on itself. There is plenty of depth and density, but the Parafada is very tightly wound at this stage. It will be interesting to see what time in bottle brings. Today, the 2017 feels squashed and compact.

The Massolino 2017 Barolo Parafada draws its fruit from Serralunga d'Alba (where this winery is located) and is often the most muscular and brawny wine in this portfolio. That is not necessarily true in the 2017 vintage that sees extra richness and concentration across the board. Morello cherry and dried blackberry are followed by tarry spice, sweet hazelnut paste and a rusty mineral note of iron ore. For sure, this vintage draws out the sweeter and softer side of Parafada.