Woodman Wines & Spirits presents a Barolo duo (say that three times fast)…
Few views in Barolo can compete with the one from the terrace in front of the Marcarini winery in La Morra, encompassing most of the region’s communes and vineyards. Look to the east and the south, and you’ll see Barolo’s modest size cradled in the crescent of the Italian Alps. Its complex topography of rounded hills can be absorbed with one sweep of the eye.
It is fitting that Marcarini occupies this prime location; in many ways, the domaine represents both the region’s traditions and its future. Under the watchful eye of owner Manuel Marchetti, these wines are paradigms of traditional Barolo, with long fermentations and macerations, and ageing in ancient large botti. But, with his children Elisa and Andrea now playing an increasing role, the Barolo Classico is now offered as Commune di La Morra, with more wine from La Serra included.
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When asked to give his opinion on the 2018 vintage, Manuel was succinct: “Don’t believe the journalists!”. He believes this is a lovely vintage, with the detail of ’16 and the warmth of ’17. With all his vineyards in La Morra, there was no frost damage (barring a few vines at the bottom of the hill), nor mildew pressure, despite the wet spring. The berries were generous, and the wines are supple – accessible but still suave and complete. The most evident markers of the vintage are the open and supportive tannins. There is no toughness; these are among the silkiest tannins that Manuel has ever witnessed.
“Aromas of eucalyptus oil and rose mingle with forest floor and red berry. It’s linear and polished, showing cherry soaked in spirits, raspberry compote and licorice alongside taut, fine-grained tannins. Drink 2023–2028.” Score – 92 (Kerin O’Keefe, Wine Enthusiast, 9,1,2022).
Marcarini Barolo del Comune di la Morra 2018 DOCG
$69.99 per bottle including all taxes, mark-ups, and delivery in the GTA.
Available exclusively from Woodman Wines & Spirits by the 12-bottle case only.
To place an order for delivery call 416.767.5114 or email.
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The Brunate vineyard has been recognized as one of the Langhe’s most important crus since the 1300s, and today is 
officially recognized as a Menzione Geografica Aggiuntiva. For several generations, the Marcarini family has owned a considerable part of the Brunate vineyards, a few bottles of their Brunate 2017 remain available from Vintages.
“This is a powerful red with a full body and lots of dried fruit, walnuts, smoke and dried flowers. Asphalt and tar, too. It’s full and very layered with round, chewy tannins and a rich finish. Needs time to soften and open. Try after 2024.” Score – 96. (jamessuckling.com, July 2, 2021)
Marcarini Barolo Brunate 2017 DOCG
$108.00 per bottle.
LCBO #8052
Available from Vintages.
To place an order and find stock click here.
