Restrained aromas of mint, minerals, cherry pits and dried violets. Full-bodied, firm and slightly dusty yet dense, with ripe, velvety tannins, refreshing acidity, amazing tension and a tight finish. Polished, with aging potential. Drink or hold.
95 points, Aldo Fiordelli, James Suckling (Apr 2026)
Showing the fundamental balance and intensity of the vintage, the Michele Chiarlo 2021 Barolo Cerequio does a good job of underlining the character of the grape and its environment. The aromas span a wide range, with cassis, orange peel, rose and toasted spice, without too much emphasis on any one of those elements. To the palate, the delivery is silky, polished and tight with finely knit tannins. This bottle has the qualities for a successful aging trajectory.
94+ points, Monica Larner, Wine Advocate (Jun 2025)
The 2021 Barolo Cerequio is redolent of black cherry, mocha, espresso, licorice, dried flowers and spice. As always, Chiarlo interprets Cerequio in a pretty rich, deep style. I find the 2021 to have plenty of those qualities, but with a bit more refinement and less heaviness than in the past. That's a very positive development in my view. There's a lot to like in this dramatic, ample Barolo.
94 points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous (Sep 2025)
Dried herbs, dried roses, lean and savoury, fresh acidity that gives a cushion of freshness. This is thoroughly charming, medium-weight, mouthwatering on the finish, no need to wait too long to begin drinking. Stefano Chiarlo winemaker, from 1ha of 50 year old vines in the village of La Morra, first vintage 1988. Fermented in 55hl oak vats.
94 points, Jane Anson (Feb 2025)
A seductive and introspective wine, the 2021 Barolo Cerequio has a matte red hue and offers layered aromas of polished leather, preserved cherries, candied flowers, truffle, and mossy earth. It fills the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, ripe tannins, even acidity, and deeper gamey richness through the mid-palate and finish. It’s nicely styled and should continue to improve over the next 10-12 years.
93 points, Audrey Frick, Jeb Dunnuck (May 2025)
A mix of fruity and savory, this red boasts cherry, raspberry, menthol, iron and tobacco aromas and flavors. Starts out fluid before tightening up on the dusty finish. Best from 2028 through 2045. 1,200 cases made, 200 cases imported.
93 points, Bruce Sanderson, Wine Spectator (Dec 2025)
Balsamic cherry, petrichor and earth scents with a floral edge introduce a fragrant and energetic mouthful of sweet and ripe red fruits. Fine, grainy tannins underline bright and zesty cherry and strawberry, with a mineral and sapid mid-palate then a vibrant finish. Still young, but with plenty to offer.
93 points, James Button, Decanter (Oct 2025)
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