米歇爾·基亞羅 Barolo Tortoniano DOCG 2020

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 Barolo Tortoniano is named after the Tortonian-era soils, dating back approximately 9 million years, in which the vines are planted. These soils are rich in microelements such as magnesium and manganese, contributing to the wine’s notable elegance and silky tannins. The 2020 vintage began with a mild winter and little rainfall. Although the dry and sunny spring suggested an early vintage, May and June were particularly rainy, slowing vegetative growth but accumulating water reserves for summer. September’s mild and dry climate allowed the grapes to reach perfect ripeness. This vintage is marked by abundant production and excellent diurnal temperature variations, ideal for the slow maturation of tannins. 

Vinification & Aging Methods

Fermentation occurs in steel tanks with 15 to 18 days of maceration on the skins, utilizing a soft “shower” system to wet the cap at temperatures between 27°C and 31°C. Malolactic fermentation follows in steel. The wine is then aged for a minimum of three years, including 24 months in medium-sized oak casks, followed by refinement in the bottle before release. 

Tasting Notes

The 2020 Barolo Tortoniano presents a garnet color with brilliant luminous hues. The nose is inviting and complex, offering notes of rose petals, juniper berries, and fine spices. On the palate, it is ample and well-structured, with a silky texture of tannins that provide surprising harmony even at a young age. The wine culminates in remarkable elegance and persistence.

Food & Wine Pairing

This Barolo pairs exceptionally well with dishes such as fettuccine with porcini mushrooms, Barolo-braised pigeon, and well-matured cheeses. Its refined structure and complex flavors complement rich, savory dishes, making it a versatile choice for various culinary experiences.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate its aromatic nuances and structural balance, serve the Barolo Tortoniano at a temperature of 17–18°C (63–64°F). Using large red wine glasses will allow the wine to express its full bouquet. Decanting for about an hour before serving can enhance its complexity.

Storage and Aging Potential

While the Barolo Tortoniano is approachable in its youth, it has the potential to age gracefully for 10–15 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, tobacco, and dried herbs, enhancing its overall complexity.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Nebbiolo

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

14% 

Scores

• Wine Enthusiast: 92 points

• James Suckling: 92 points

• Wine Spectator: 91 points