Michele Chiarlo : Cerequio Riserva 2016

The structure and freshness of a Barolo wine

The estate

The reputation of the eponymous estate Michele Chiarlo has been forged since 1956, when this oenologist decided to establish his own estate and produce outstanding Piedmont wines.

His ambition ? To showcase the terroirs and grape varieties of Piedmont and reveal their unique character through a constant pursuit of excellence and bespoke winemaking.

Located in the village of Calamandrana within the Barolo appellation, the Michele Chiarlo estate produces wines acclaimed for their inimitable style, harmoniously combining aromatic complexity with supple, silky tannins.

The vineyard

The Michele Chiarlo estate oversees a mosaic of vineyards spanning 110 hectares, forming a true treasure of the Langhe, the historic terroir of Piedmont in northern Italy.

The wine

Produced since 2006 and only in exceptional vintages, this Riserva cuvée from Michele Chiarlo is a Barolo wine crafted from a historic vineyard in Cerequio. Covering 0.90 hectares, this site, with vines planted in 1972, sits on a clay-limestone marl soil.

The vintage

2016 was a year in which ideal and consistent climatic conditions promoted optimal vegetative growth. The alternation of warm days and cool nights in September and early October was ideal for refining ripeness before the harvest, which took place from October 6 to 12.

Winemaking and aging

The hand-harvested grapes undergo fermentation in oak vats lasting 30 days. This wine then benefits from one year of aging in 700-litre barrels, followed by two years in large casks. After bottling, a further minimum aging of 24 months is undertaken before this cuvée is released to the market.

Blend

Nebbiolo (100%).

Characteristics and tasting recommendations for the Cerequio Riserva 2016 by Michele Chiarlo

Tasting

Color
The color is an intense garnet red.

Nose
Complex and elegant, the nose captivates with its freshness. Fragrances of chocolate, mint and delicate spices mingle with balsamic notes typical of this Italian terroir.

Palate
Ideally structured, the palate reveals a silky texture and a refreshing persistence.

Food and wine pairings

Tagliolini with Alba truffle, game stew, risotto or aged cheeses are delicate pairings with this Barolo.

Serving

For optimal tasting, serve at 18°C.