2021 Michele Chiarlo Barolo Tortoniano Anniversario DOCG, Piedmont

Restrained, if not low-key at the first impression, with small red-fruit aromas and lots of licorice. Minty and tight. Medium- to full-bodied, it seems built to last, with firm, dusty tannins and crisp acidity allied to a fresh fruit profile. Still young. Try from 2027.

93 points James Suckling

The Chiarlo family has been one of Piedmont's great wine dynasties for generations. Founded by Michele Chiarlo in 1956, the estate played a pivotal role in elevating Barolo and Barbaresco onto the world stage. Today, Stefano Chiarlo continues that legacy, combining meticulous vineyard management with a deep respect for tradition. The Tortoniano Anniversario was created to celebrate the winery's history and showcases the elegance and complexity that have become hallmarks of the Chiarlo style.

Named after the Tortonian soils that dominate much of the Barolo zone, this wine is sourced from a selection of estate and grower vineyards across some of the appellation's finest communes, including La Morra, Barolo and Monforte d'Alba. These calcareous marl soils are renowned for producing Barolo with aromatic intensity, refined tannins and remarkable balance. The outstanding 2021 vintage delivered fruit of exceptional quality, combining concentration with freshness and structure.

Bright garnet red in colour, the bouquet is immediately captivating with aromas of rose petal, red cherry and wild strawberry layered over notes of blood orange, liquorice and sweet spice. As the wine evolves in the glass, hints of dried herbs, tobacco leaf, forest floor and truffle begin to emerge, revealing the complexity that defines great Nebbiolo. The palate is poised and beautifully detailed, combining vibrant red fruits with savoury earthy nuances and fine mineral notes. Silky yet persistent tannins provide structure and longevity, while fresh acidity carries the flavours through a long, graceful finish.

A natural partner for truffle risotto, braised beef cheeks, slow cooked lamb shoulder, porcini mushroom pappardelle or aged Parmigiano Reggiano. Although already remarkably approachable by Barolo standards, this wine possesses the balance and pedigree to evolve magnificently over the next fifteen to twenty years.