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Piedmont, Italy
Clerico
One of the most outspoken and dedicated producers in our portfolio is Domenico Clerico. He has a very strong personality and it’s interesting he was born in Monforte d’Alba, the Barolo comune that is know for producing some of the strongest and most structured wines of Barolo. The soils in the eastern valley of Barolo are less fertile and are a collection of calcareous marl, limestone and sandstone - the Nebbiolo that grows in these parts just has more color, aging potential and is bolder. In addition to having a larger than life personality, he’s also a farmer’s farmer. He works the land and understands his vineyards as well as any grower we have ever met, he respects the area he’s in and simply creates an environment for his vines to thrive and give him the most healthy and balanced fruit to express the Monforte village. His right hand man Massimo Contero has grown up in the cellars of Clerico and has taken on the challenge to farm and craft some of the most singular wines from Barolo. These are some of the boldest and explosive wines you will ever have. In a classic year like 2004 these wines will have few peers and offer great enjoyment for anyone with a love for Barolo. The most famous cru Domenico farms is the Ginestra, this bowl shaped vineyard has a steep head wall and is protected from the northern winds and is just beautiful to see. The other wine comes from Pajana, a little known sub plot of the Ginestra where the exposure is a little more easterly. From here Domenico crafts Pajana Barolo that for us has always been a little more elegant. Yields at this estate are low and the viticulture is strict in terms of pruning and care, everything is farmed organically. Clerico’s wines will be among the most sought after wines of the vintage.
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