Michele Chiarlo sources its Nebbiolo for this cuvée front the 1ha Asili vineyard which sits at 250m asl on blue-grey calcareous marl having with a small presence of clay. The site is marginal, poor in organic matter, but rich in elements such as magnesium and calcium.
Elegant and ethereal (the winery describes these aspects as ‘aristocratic’), there is typical notes of violet, red fruits and fine spices on the nose while the lengthy palate is complex and silky.
Asili is a prestigious and historic Added Geographical Indication of the Barbaresco Docg, a designation which has made vinification possible in only four municipal districts in Langhe: Alba, Barbaresco, Neive and Treiso.
Fragrant and loaded with personality, this opens with heady scents of violet, camphor, tilled earth and wild berry. On the savory palate, taut, fine-grained tannins accompany dried black cherry, crushed raspberry, thyme and star anise. It closes on an almost salty note.
95 points, Kerin O'Keefe (October 2020)
The 2017 Barbaresco Asili is a smooth and polished expression of Nebbiolo from a warm vintage. The wine opens to fresh aromas of black currant and wild berry with tilled earth, sweet licorice and campfire ash. This Barbaresco shows good structure and a streamlined approach that glides with clear intensity over the palate.
94 points, Wine Advocate (October 2020)
Another big, rich Barbaresco with chewy tannins and lots of ripe-strawberry character. It’s full-bodied with ripe and juicy tannins and a flavorful finish. Needs time to mellow.
93 points, JamesSuckling.com (June 2020)
The 2017 Barbaresco Asili is dense and ample in the glass. This is a style that favors volume over what might be called a more typical expression of place. Even so, all the elements meld together effortlessly. Chiarlo presents a decidedly plush, fruity expression of Asili with the 2017. Plum, mocha, leather, tobacco and spice all build into the substantial, resonant finish.
94 points, Vinous (October 2020)
