Domenico Clerico Barolo DOCG, Piedmont, Italy 2019

Domenico Clerico, who passed away in July 2017, began producing wine in 1976 as one of the progressive “Barolo Boys.” With a mix of both modern techniques but deep Langhe roots, Clerico’s classification is complicated. Their core winemaking philosophy is the belief that the quality of vines is the sole factor determining a wine’s potential.

The estate is situated in Monforte d’Alba, right in the heart of Barolo, with outstanding vineyard holdings in four of the greatest crus of Monforte: Ginestra, Pajana, Mosconi, and Bussia. Clerico’s Barolos have been routinely outstanding (90 points or more), including topping Wine Spectator’s 2011 Top 100 Wines of the Year, with the Barolo Ciabot Mentin Ginestra 2006 coming in at No. 8. Today, Oscar Arrivabene stands at Clerico’s helm, carrying on Domenico’s vision and dream of making pure wines that fully express the true character and potential of the land.

"This is a relatively new addition to the Domenico Clerico portfolio (the first vintage was 2017) but a needed one given that the estate's most recognized wines like the Barolos Pajana and Ciabot Mentin (both from Ginestra) are recognized as their own brands outside an MGA identity. This wine, however, reminds us that Domenico Clerico's wine DNA is totally linked to Monforte d'Alba. The 2019 Barolo del Comune di Monforte d'Alba takes a few minutes to open before it delivers that combination of dark berry fruit and rusty mineral that gives this part of the appellation strength and structure. Some 30,000 bottles are available at an interesting price point." Wine Advocate 94