Domenico Clerico : Pajana 2020

Characteristics and tasting tips for the Pajana 2020 from Domenico Clerico

Tasting

Appearance

The wine shows a ruby-red color with subtle garnet highlights.

Nose

The nose reveals a complex, refined aromatic palette, with floral notes of violet alongside herbal aromas of wild mint and thyme. Tangy red-fruit aromas—especially cherry and raspberry—intertwine with balsamic touches and hints of forest floor. With aeration, nuances of eucalyptus, rosemary, and citrus complete this elegant bouquet.

Palate

On the palate, the Pajana 2020 seduces with its elegant structure and refined, fine-grained tannins. The palate unfolds flavors of dried cherry, raspberry, and strawberry, lifted by notes of licorice, orange zest, white pepper, and sweet spices. The hallmark minerality of the Ginestra terroir comes through with subtle impressions of graphite and stone. Lively acidity brings freshness and energy, while the finish stands out for its remarkable length, with lingering aromas of smoky tar, licorice, and dried herbs.

Food and wine pairings

This Barolo is an ideal match for roasted meats and braised dishes. It pairs perfectly with braised beef preparations, veal such as osso buco, or lamb. Dishes featuring wild mushrooms—especially truffle risotto or polenta with porcini—also make excellent pairings. Aged cheeses such as Grana Padano, Toma, or Castelmagno further enhance the qualities of this wine. Game dishes, whether rabbit, venison, or wild boar, also harmonize with the elegance and structure of the Pajana 2020.

Serving and cellaring

The Pajana 2020 should be served at a temperature between 16 and 18°C. Decanting for two to three hours is recommended to allow the wine to open up and fully express its aromatic complexity. This wine can be enjoyed now with appropriate aeration, but will reach its peak between around 2029 and 2045. Its aging potential extends to around 2045, or even beyond.

An elegant, refined Barolo from Piedmont by Domenico Clerico

The estate

Founded in 1979 by Domenico Clerico in the commune of Monforte d'Alba, the Domenico Clerico estate now spans around 21 hectares across four prestigious crus in Piedmont. An iconic figure of the “Barolo Boys” movement in the 1980s and 1990s, Domenico revolutionized the region’s approach to winemaking by combining modern techniques with respect for terroir. After his passing in 2017, the estate has been led by his wife, Giuliana Clerico, alongside oenologist Oscar Arrivabene, who upholds the founder’s philosophy while continuing to evolve the practices. The estate is renowned for its exceptionally fine Barolo wines, precisely expressing the unique characteristics of each parcel.

The vineyard

The Pajana vineyard covers around three hectares within the prestigious Ginestra cru, located in Monforte d'Alba in the Barolo region. The vines, planted between 1971 and 1991, benefit from a predominantly south-eastern exposure at a slightly lower altitude than neighboring parcels. The soil, rich in limestone and clay, gives the wine its hallmark minerality and outstanding aging potential. The estate practices sustainable, organic viticulture, favoring manual work and meticulous canopy management to optimize grape ripeness while preserving the vineyard’s natural balance.

The vintage

The 2020 vintage proved particularly favorable in Piedmont. The mild, low-rainfall winter encouraged budbreak around two weeks early. May, June, and July saw regular rainfall that replenished water reserves without excess. August brought moderate temperatures with no heatwave, allowing gradual, balanced ripening. September stood out for cool temperatures and a significant day-night temperature swing—ideal conditions for the accumulation of phenolic compounds and the preservation of high acidity. Harvest took place from late September to early October under optimal conditions. This vintage produces elegant wines with supple tannins and a more immediate approach than 2019, while retaining excellent aging potential.

Winemaking and aging

The Pajana 2020 grapes were hand-harvested at optimal ripeness. After 20 to 25 days of skin maceration with precise temperature control, the wine was aged exclusively in large 5,000-liter oak casks (foudres) for a minimum of 24 to 30 months. This cuvée marks a turning point in the estate’s approach, as the 2020 vintage is the first to be aged entirely in large vessels, abandoning the use of barriques to favor the pure expression of terroir and minimize oak influence. The wine was neither fined nor filtered before bottling, thus preserving its structural and aromatic integrity.

Grape variety

100% Nebbiolo