Marolo Grappa di Barolo

About the Producer

Marolo grappa is produced at the Distilleria Santa Teresa in Piedmont, Italy. The distillery was founded in 1977 by Paolo Marolo. Marolo was started during a time when Italian grappas were thought of as a cheap spirit and not much effort was typically paid tohigher end production. Marolo is one of the distilleries that helped create a high end grappa that could be enjoyed by enthusiasts.

Marolo produced grappa from many different grape varieties, both aged and unaged. They also produce a range of Amaros and Vermouths under the Ulrich brandy name.

Details

  • Made from Nebbiolo grapes from the Barolo region of Piedmont.
  • 42% abv
  • Aged for 4 years.
  • Got for $70.

Nose

Fiery but in a good way. Surprises me how strong it is at 42%. Tons of black licorice. Lots of stems and twigs. Traces of bitter orange peel. Very good nose.

Palate

Again very flavorful and fiery. Same flavors as the nose but the orange peel is way more prominent. Some added peppermint. Texture is oily and a bit hot, not from alcohol but from the fiery flavors. Very full flavored and bodied. Very good.

Finish

Long and earthy with a slight bitterness

Rating: 6

Overall

Very good for a common(ish) grappa. Adheres to the style well but has something extra with the orange peel. Recommend.

Rating scale:

1 | Disgusting | So bad I poured it out.

2 | Poor | I wouldn’t consume by choice.

3 | Bad | Multiple flaws.

4 | Sub-par | Not bad, but many things I’d rather have.

5 | Good | Good, just fine.

6 | Very Good | A cut above.

7 | Great | Well above average.

8 | Excellent | Really quite exceptional.

9 | Incredible | An all-time favorite.

10 | Perfect | Perfect.