In 1996 the flowering was delayed and the summer was on the cool side. Only a spell of heat towards the end of the season allowed the fruit to ripen. As a result, the 1996 Masseto is both fresh, but also rather compact. It possesses gorgeous, well-delineated aromatics and plenty of complexity but not the depth or richness to improve materially from here.
Full, dark ruby. Very ripe, sweet plum and red berry aromas, along with harmonious oak notes of smoke and vanilla. Quite silky on the palate but not at the expense of its concentration and structure. Very well balanced, stylish and long, and already drinking very well.
