Domenico Clerico Barolo Pajana 2018

Drink it now or cellar for up to 25 years. It is recommended to decant it for an hour. The son of Piedmontese winemakers, Domenico Clerico decided to take over the family business in 1976, stopping selling grapes to the local cooperative to produce his own wines. Since then, the estate has expanded its vineyards, which now span approximately 21 hectares and include highly valuable plots in the heart of Bussia, in the Ginestra and Mosconi crus. The Nebbiolo grapes are sourced from the Pajana plot in the Ginestra Typical Geographical Indication in the municipality of Monforte d'Alba. The vineyard, originally planted in 1971, enjoys an altitude of approximately 330 meters and an east-southeast exposure. The vineyard takes its name from the ancient passage that runs along the top of the hill connecting Monforte d'Alba and Serralunga. Barolo Pajana, first produced in 1990, has an intense, dark ruby color with garnet highlights. On the nose, it reveals a broad bouquet with typical aromas of berries and dried flowers, along with hints of mocha and cocoa. On the palate, it is powerful, expressive, and full-bodied, with a touch of exuberance and firm, well-integrated tannins. The finish is very long with a fruity and cocoa aftertaste. This wine has extraordinary aging potential and pairs well with filet mignon, pappardelle with wild boar sauce, and venison stew.