Massetino - Toscana 2022 (Pre-arrival) (750ml)
James Suckling: 97 Points
This is refined and fresh with hints of sandalwood to the beautiful blue fruits. It?s medium-bodied with creamy and polished tannins that frame the blue fruit and hints of crushed stone. Succulent and juicy with a crunchy personality. You want a sip right away. Second wine of the highest quality from Masseto. So drinkable and wonderful. Drink or hold.
Decanter: 97 Points
Massetino is considered the second wine of Masseto but I'm beginning to come to the conclusion that it's far more than that. It represents around one-third of the production of Masseto and judging by the quality of this 2022 next year's release of the grand vin could be absolutely phenomenal. Massetino has always incorporated a portion Cabernet Franc since its first vintage 2017 ? 10% in 2022. A cool and dry spring led to a slightly late budbreak followed by 75 days of drought and high temperatures. Summer storms eventually came along to restore balance and the cool September evenings were perfect for the grapes reach full ripeness. Each parcel was vinified separately and spontaneously in concrete tanks before undergoing malolactic fermentation in barriques 50% new. After 12 months the final blend was made and the wine spent a further three months in concrete before bottling. Bright and stony there's so much energy here. Zingy and sapid it combines fresh Mediterranean herbs and poised fruit with more verticality than Masseto 2021 and just as much concentration. Incredible precision and beautiful freshness especially considering the vintage. (Drink between 2025-2042)
Wine Spectator: 93 Points
This is opulent with a lush texture enveloping black cherry blackberry and plum flavors. Flashes of tar iron and wild herbs add detail as this red builds to the long finish. Balanced and fresh with sweet lingering oak spice notes. Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2026 through 2040. 160 cases imported.
