Michele Chiarlo Barolo Cerequio Riserva DOCG 2013

Winery Background and History

Founded in 1956 in Calamandrana, Piedmont, Michele Chiarlo is a family-owned winery renowned for producing wines that express the unique terroirs of the region. The winery emphasizes sustainable viticulture and traditional winemaking techniques, crafting wines that reflect the elegance and complexity of Piedmont’s native grape varieties. Michele Chiarlo’s commitment to quality and innovation has established it as a benchmark producer in the Langhe and Monferrato areas.

Producer and Wine Maker

Michele Chiarlo, the founder, has been instrumental in elevating the reputation of Piedmontese wines on the global stage. His son, Stefano Chiarlo, continues the legacy, overseeing viticulture and winemaking. Their philosophy centers on minimal intervention, allowing the character of each vineyard to shine through. The Chiarlo family’s dedication ensures that each bottle embodies the essence of its origin.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The Cerequio vineyard, located between La Morra and Barolo, is one of the most prestigious crus in the Barolo region. The vineyard benefits from a unique microclimate with optimal sun exposure and well-drained calcareous-clay soils, contributing to the wine’s complexity and elegance. The 2013 vintage experienced traditional climatic conditions, resulting in a late harvest that produced well-structured and complex wines with excellent aging potential.

Vinification & Aging Methods

Fermentation occurs in 55 hl oak vats with a 22-day maceration period using a gentle “shower” system to wet the cap at temperatures between 28–32°C. Malolactic fermentation follows in vats. The wine is then aged for a minimum of six years, including three years in large casks and three years of bottle refinement, ensuring depth and complexity.

Tasting Notes

The 2013 Barolo Cerequio Riserva exhibits a bright garnet color with light orange hues. The nose is complex and intense, offering balsamic notes, violet, small black fruits, truffle, and fine spices. On the palate, it is rich and powerful at first, transitioning to an extremely elegant texture with silky, enveloping tannins, culminating in great harmony and a long-lasting flavor.

Food & Wine Pairing

This wine pairs excellently with tagliolini with d’Alba truffle, stews, risotto with Barolo, and well-matured cheeses. Its robust structure and complex flavors complement rich, savory dishes, making it a versatile choice for various culinary experiences.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve the Barolo Cerequio Riserva at a temperature of 18°C (64°F) to fully appreciate its aromatic nuances and structural balance. Decanting for about an hour before serving can enhance its complexity. Use large red wine glasses to allow the wine to breathe and express its full bouquet.

Storage and Aging Potential

While the Barolo Cerequio Riserva is enjoyable upon release, it has the potential to age gracefully for up to 20 years. Proper storage in a cool, dark place with stable temperatures will allow the wine to develop additional nuances, such as tertiary aromas of leather and dried herbs, enhancing its overall complexity.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Nebbiolo

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

14%

Scores

• Wine Enthusiast: 96 points

• Wine Spectator: 94 points

• Wine Advocate: 94 points

• Robert Parker: 94 points