The 2021 Parafada from Massolino captures the essence of the cru and the vintage thanks to its intensity, structure and radiance. It opens with heady scents of crushed rose petal, camphor, new leather and dark spice while the full-bodied palate delivers succulent raspberry, ripe cherry, licorice and tobacco before a long, savory finish. Firm, fine-grained tannins provide the framework while fresh acidity keeps it vibrant. The best Parada I've had in years from this estate, this is a wine I'd love to have in my own cellar.
98 points, Kerin O'Keefe (Jan 2025)
The Massolino 2021 Barolo Parafada is also from Serralunga d'Alba, although this MGA site reveals a different profile based on flowers and dried herbs. The wine has a botanical feel with crushed oregano that frames cassis, wild cherry and plum. There is a ferrous note of rusty nail that is characteristic of this site and adds another level of complexity. This wine is structured, taut and shows incredible tension.
97 points, Monica Larner, Wine Advocate (Jun 2025)
Rich and laced with strawberry, cherry, raspberry, licorice, tar, menthol and mineral flavors, this Barolo is juicy and bursting with energy. Solidly built yet remains harmonious, its dense tannins tempered by the ripe berry aftertaste. Shows fine complexity and freshness. Best from 2030 through 2050. 410 cases made.
97 points, Bruce Sanderson, Wine Spectator (Jan 2026)
This is really perfumed, with violets, bark, attractive blue fruit and a touch of cedar. The palate is medium- to full-bodied with some juicy, pleasant fruit that is dominated by youthful, austere tannins that should resolve with time. This should come together in four to five years.
97 points, Jacobo García Andrade, James Suckling (Jan 2025)
A similar red ruby color, the 2021 Barolo Parafada shows off a more contemplative and serious side, opening with aromas of fresh tobacco, ripe cherries, fresh leather, anise, and toasted baking spices. The palate is compact, with a more chiseled structure, featuring ripe tannins that are well-defined, an even spine of acidity, and a good deal of length, along with a more noble feel through the finish. It needs another year or more of cellaring and will keep for two decades. Drink 2027-2047.
96 points, Audrey Frick, Jeb Dunnuck (May 2025)