2020 Chionetti Roncaglie Barolo, Piedmont

An attractive rose petal and dried herb fragrance infuses into the warming, roasted hazelnut core. Chalky and textured with opulent tannins and an enduring floral finish.

95 points decanter.com

Chionetti Roncaglie Barolo from Piedmont is a compelling expression of the Monforte d’Alba commune, showing the house’s signature precision and authenticity alongside the powerful elegance of the Roncaglie cru. The Chionetti family, historically known for world-class Dolcetto, has quietly become a serious Barolo producer, particularly since Nicola Chionetti took the reins. His wines have steadily gained attention for their purity, detail and superb balance between structure and finesse.

The Roncaglie vineyard sits at elevation with southeast exposure, composed of classic calcareous marl soils that give the wine its chiselled form. This Barolo opens with deep aromas of dark cherries, dried rose, licorice root and tobacco leaf, all underscored by crushed rock and a whisper of wild herbs. The palate is tightly coiled, with layered red and black fruit, graphite and subtle baking spice, all wrapped in fine, chalky tannins. It’s a wine that demands patience but rewards handsomely with time, revealing ever more aromatic complexity and palate depth with each passing year.

This Barolo is aged in large neutral oak for slow evolution and an unforced elegance. It’s built for the cellar, with a drinking window starting from around 2028 and stretching two decades beyond. Perfect with braised beef cheek, wild mushroom risotto or aged alpine cheeses.