The 2019 M. Marengo Brunate Barolo is a distinguished red wine from the renowned Piedmont region in Italy, crafted from the Nebbiolo grape. This particular vintage has garnered high praise from several esteemed wine reviewers, each highlighting its complexity, structure, and aging potential.
James Suckling awarded the wine an impressive 96 points, noting its multifaceted character. He described it as "earthy and spiced yet fresh and red-fruited at the same time," with a bouquet that includes "cherries and peach skins as well as dried flowers and decomposed wood undertones." Suckling commended its "impressive complexity and structure," emphasizing its medium to full body and "densely packed, fine tannins." He concluded that it is "balanced and long," recommending that it be tried after 2027 (jamessuckling.com, 6/23/2023).
Wine Spectator gave the wine a 93-point score, characterizing it as "an austere, tightly packed red" with flavors of "plum, black cherry and violet...underlined by beefy tannins." The review suggested that the wine's "compact finish makes it difficult to see where this is going," but recommended an optimal drinking window from 2028 through 2048. The limited production is also noted, with only 400 cases made and 250 cases imported (Wine Spectator, 11/30/2023).
Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate provided the highest score of the three, with 97 points. The review described the 2019 Barolo Brunate as a "fleshy and hearty Nebbiolo with ample structure and staying power." The bouquet is rich with "dark fruit, candied plum, blue flower, spice and rusty mineral," along with hints of "rosemary sprig or forest bramble." The review highlighted the wine's characteristic "metallic-like notes" from the Brunate vineyard cru and its significant aging potential, supported by its robust structure. The production is noted at 6,000 bottles (Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate, 8/24/2023).
Overall, the 2019 M. Marengo Brunate Barolo is a highly acclaimed wine that promises excellent aging potential and showcases the complexity and depth typical of Barolo wines. Its varied reviews emphasize its robust structure, intricate flavors, and the patience required to fully appreciate its potential in the coming years.