Brought up in a family with a long history of winemaking in La Morra, brothers Andrea and Stefano Mascarello decided to take the plunge and create a fresh new domaine: Maffrei. These self-proclaimed “Bros in Wine” are two young and energetic winemakers that are as interesting as the bottle’s captivating label and their fun digestible story. 

In 2021, Andrea and Stefano purchased the hilltop farmhouse next to their sand-dominant vineyard at the top of La Morra. This is where Andrea laid out an enthusiastic road map for their bright future. The two are entrusted with the Torriglione vineyard in La Morra, which they proudly thank their grandfather for planting a few years before his passing. The inheritance includes high-altitude plantings of Dolcetto in Diano d’Alba, and their newest acquisition, the “highest” vineyard in La Morra, near Serradenari cru. Andrea and Stefano have big things coming despite the high-level achieved in their first vintage of 2021. Working alongside their decidedly experienced father and uncle, combining their degrees in oenology and global work experience, Maffrei has formed a strong foundation to build up into a dynamic La Morra estate.

One simply cannot help but buy into Andrea’s deep excitement for the project. Releasing 3 cuvées with the 2023 vintage –  Langhe Bianco, Dolcetto, and Langhe Nebbiolo, Maffrei is doing élevage in stainless steel tanks and crafting high toned, pure, and bright wines. The Dolcetto  and Nebbiolo are seeing partial whole cluster, yet they maintain classic qualities for both varieties. The Bianco is a blend of Riesling, Arneis, and Nascetta, celebrating Langhe white varietals and crafting a first-time blend with real character. The duo is not afraid to push the envelope, and no doubt this adds to the verve around these brothers, their story, and the wines. Next up, will be their anticipated Barolo release.