Domenico Clerico : Ciabot Mentin 2019

Tasting characteristics and advice for Domenico Clerico’s Ciabot Mentin Ginestra 2019

Tasting

Color
The color reveals a deep garnet hue with the characteristic brick-orange highlights at the rim of the glass.

Nose
The nose opens initially on floral notes of violet, accompanied by hints of wild mint, fresh thyme and rosemary. With aeration, aromas of black fruit emerge—black cherry, blackberry and plum—interwoven with licorice, star anise and tobacco. After decanting, mineral nuances of graphite, iron ore and crushed stone further enhance the bouquet.

Palate
The attack is powerful and juicy, revealing impressive concentration supported by a firm yet elegant tannic structure. Flavors of red and black cherries, blackcurrant and ripe berries are framed by excellent acidity and fine, velvety tannins. Secondary notes of cocoa, spices, dried herbs, licorice and tobacco enrich the palate. The finish stands out for its remarkable length and persistent mineral accents.

Food and wine pairings

This Barolo Ciabot Mentin Ginestra 2019 pairs beautifully with braised red meats, furred game such as wild boar or venison, as well as lamb preparations. It also makes an elegant match for a truffle or wild mushroom risotto. For cheese, opt for aged hard cheeses such as Parmigiano Reggiano or Pecorino.

Serving and cellaring

Barolo Ciabot Mentin Ginestra 2019 benefits from decanting one to two hours before serving to allow its aromas to fully express themselves. Ideally serve between 18 and 20°C in large, rounded glasses. This wine has exceptional aging potential and can be enjoyed through around 2045.

A powerful, structured Barolo from Piedmont, born of the prestigious Ginestra cru

The estate

Founded in 1976 in Monforte d'Alba, the Domenico Clerico estate now spans 21 hectares across four of the region’s greatest crus. An iconic figure of the modernist Barolo movement, Domenico Clerico revolutionized the Piedmontese approach to winemaking by prioritizing quality and the expression of terroir. Since his passing in 2017, the estate has been led by his wife Giuliana, his niece Cecilia and winemaker Oscar Arrivabene, who carry forward his philosophy of excellence.

The vineyard

Barolo Ciabot Mentin Ginestra comes from a three-hectare parcel located in the Ginestra cru in Monforte d'Alba. The vines, planted in 1978, thrive between 390 and 420 meters in altitude on clay-limestone soils rich in active limestone. The vineyard’s eastern exposure promotes the wine’s freshness and elegance while allowing the grapes to reach optimal ripeness. These exceptional geological and climatic conditions give the wine its powerful structure and remarkable aging potential.

The vintage

The 2019 vintage is considered a classic vintage in Piedmont. After a slow start to the growing season, the summer proved warm and sunny with moderate rainfall. Cool September nights helped preserve natural acidity while encouraging the development of phenolic ripeness. Nebbiolo grapes reached optimal maturity between late September and early October, under ideal weather conditions.

Winemaking and aging

The grapes for Ciabot Mentin Ginestra 2019 were vinified with an extended maceration of twenty to twenty-five days in temperature-controlled vats. Aging then took place for around sixteen months in French oak barrels, with a rigorous selection of the best barrels through constant tasting. The wine then benefited from additional bottle aging before release, allowing all its components to integrate harmoniously.

Grape variety

This Barolo wine is 100% Nebbiolo