2022 Chiarlo - Nizza DOCG Barbera Cipressi (750ml)

Michele Chiarlo founded his eponymous winery in 1956 and grew it into one of Piedmont's most respected estates, drawing on family winemaking roots that stretch back seven generations. Now led by his sons Alberto and Stefano, the winery holds prized vineyard sites across the Langhe, Monferrato, and Gavi, including a long-standing presence in the Nizza zone through the acquisition of Tenuta La Court in Castelnuovo Calcea. Cipressi takes its name from the cypress trees standing atop one of the estate's hillsides.

The Barbera grapes for this cuvee come from the La Court vineyard, planted at a density of 5,000 vines per hectare on a southeast to southwest facing slope between 230 and 280 meters above sea level. The soil, known locally as astiane sand, is a calcareous clay marl of marine origin rich in lime and magnesium, conditions that help define the Nizza appellation since its elevation to independent DOCG status in 2014. After fermentation, the wine ages for about a year in large oak casks before further refinement in barrel.

The result is a bright ruby red wine with aromas of black cherry, wild raspberry, licorice, and sweet tobacco, backed by hints of smoke and leather. On the palate it is medium bodied with velvety tannins and lively acidity leading to a long, savory finish. It pairs well with braised beef, roast duck, or aged pecorino.