JD
98
Jeb Dunnuck
The 2008 Masseto is a powerhouse, and unquestionably one of the greatest expression of pure Merlot out there. Incredibly deep, rich notes of black fruits, chocolate, earth, and licorice all emerge from this majestic yet classic, regal, masculine wine. It’s full-bodied and beautifully balanced on the palate and has fabulous purity of fruit, polished tannins, and a huge finish. It’s still a baby but wow, what a wine. Reviewed by: Jeb Dunnuck, Issue date: December 2018. Drinking window: 2018 - 2048.
RP
97
Robert Parker Wine Advocate
(RATING 97+) The 2008 Masseto is another huge wine. It boasts tons of energy in a tense, inward style I can only describe as implosive, as if the wine is holding back all of its energy. A deep core of black fruit, grilled herbs, licorice and new leather emerges from time to time, but the tannins are still imposing. There is no shortage of pedigree. I fully expect the 2008 to develop into one of the great Massetos. Needless to say, it will be interesting to taste the 2008 in vertical tastings in the future. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2033. Reviewed by: Antonio Galloni, Issue date: June 2012. Drinking window: 2018 - 2033.
V
97
Vinous
(RATING 97+)The 2008 Masseto has never been an easy wine. When it was first released, it was so hard and unyielding. Time has helped the 2008 soften a bit. Even so, it remains a wine of contrasts, of a very obvious push and pull that seems to mirror a growing season marked by alternating periods of warm weather and far cooler conditions. Graphite, smoke, tar and licorice, along with broad tannins, give the 2008 a real feeling of masculine power, qualities that are accentuated in the magnum format. Reviewed by: Antonio Galloni, Issue date: Jaunary 2018. Drinking window: 2018 - 2038.