2016 Domenico Clerico Barolo Pujana

2016 Domenico Clerico Barolo Pujana

2016 Domenico Clerico Barolo Pujana The Domenico Clerico 2016 Barolo Pajana draws its fruit from a parcel within the Ginestra cru that was planted in two phases, first in 1971 and again in 1991. It lies 350 meters above sea level and sees looser sandy soils compared to the higher-altitude parts of the vineyard (that delineates Ciabot Mentin). These conditions lead to extra richness and a velvety texture. Pajana is guided by a deep sense of elegance and finesse. The aromas show a smooth succession of cassis, black currant, blood orange, spice, camphor ash and smoke. The wine’s length is what stands out, as you taste those Nebbiolo characteristics for many long minutes. 96pts Parker

The opulence and intensity is impressive on the nose from the beginning, showing plums, ripe strawberries, mushrooms and smoked meat. It’s full-bodied and chewy with a tight, focused palate of ripe fruit and chewy tannins. Compact and tight. Give this time, please. Try after 2023 at least. 96pts Suckling

Domenico Clerico’s wines are a benchmark for Barolo. His wines are renowned for both winemaking of the highest quality and for exceptional character, deriving from outstanding vineyard holdings in four of the greatest crus of Monforte: Ginestra, Bussia, Pajana and Mosconi. Great Barolo combine power and elegance like no other wine. They age spectacularly well in the cellar. In fact the finest and oldest wines I have ever tasted are top Barolo’s from stellar vintages like 1982 and ’78. Todays wine comes from one of the all-time great Barolo vintages, 2016. The vintage received 97pts by Parker’s WA, the highest rated vintage in the last 13 years. The Wine Spectator gave 2016 98pts the highest rating they have given a vintage going back to 1996.  Today we bring you the great 2016 Domenico Clerico Barolo Pujana, a wine that typifies great Barolo in all its glory. This is a wine of power and richness that is starting to come around. I would recommend decanting or leaving open overnight to allow the wine to show its glory. A wine of incredible length. I am putting a case in my cellar, one of my favorite Barolo’s.