Michele Chiarlo Barbaresco Faset DOCG 2019

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 Winemaker

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 Microclimate

The Faset vineyard, located in the Barbaresco region, is one of the most prestigious areas of Barbaresco. Planted in 1965, the old vines follow a steep slope with the western side facing the Tanaro River. The soil is rich in calcium and magnesium, making it an excellent vineyard and gives the wine its silkiness and elegant tannins. The vines are thinned of excess bunches at the end of summer, leaving 5-6 bunches per vine on average.

Vinification & Aging Methods

After hand-harvesting, the grapes undergo fermentation for 17–18 days with the skins in 55hl oak vats, utilizing a soft “shower” system to wet the cap at temperatures between 27°C and 30°C. Malolactic fermentation follows in vats. The wine is then aged for a minimum of 2 years, including 18 months in large oak casks, followed by additional refinement in the bottle.

Tasting Notes

The 2019 Barbaresco Faset displays a garnet color with brilliant hues. The nose is ample and aristocratic, offering notes of dried rose petals, small red fruits, and an elegant hint of minerals combined with fine spices. On the palate, the wine has great structure, is elegant and welcoming, with marked minerality and the dense texture of fine tannins.

Food & Wine Pairing

This Barbaresco pairs excellently with wild rabbit with juniper berries, roast pheasant, agnolotti with roast sauce, and well-matured cheeses. Its refined structure and aromatic profile also complement mushroom-based dishes, making it a versatile choice for various culinary experiences.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve Barbaresco Faset at a temperature of 18°C (64°F) to fully appreciate its aromatic nuances and structural balance. Decanting for about 30 minutes 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 Barbaresco Faset is enjoyable upon release, it has the potential to age gracefully for up to 15 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: 95 points

• Robert Parker: 94 points

• Kerin O’Keefe: 94 points

• Club Oenologique: 94 points

• Wine Spectator: 93 points

• Vinous: 93 points

• James Suckling: 93 points