The 2018 Barolo Cannubi from Michele Chiarlo invites you into the enchanting world of Nebbiolo and one of Barolo’s most prestigious crus—Cannubi. This is a wine of remarkable complexity and finesse, with pristine aromas and an exceptional expression of the region’s terroir, bordering on perfection. And no, that’s not an exaggeration. The 96 points from Wine Enthusiast, 95 from Wine Advocate, 94 from Wine Spectator, and 17 from Jancis Robinson confirm it. Its price boldly declares this is a rare opportunity you simply shouldn’t miss.
Michele Chiarlo was one of the pioneers who deeply believed in the potential of Piemonte’s native grape varieties. Through single-vineyard vinifications, he helped showcase the region’s unique terroir. He founded his namesake winery in Calamandrana in 1956, and through exports and international exhibitions, played a key role in bringing global recognition to Nebbiolo, Barbera, and Cortese—as well as to Piemonte itself. He also cultivated vineyards in some of the most revered Barolo crus, such as Cerequio and Cannubi (the oldest officially recognized cru vineyard in Italy, dating back to 1752!). His first cru Barolo label was released in 1958.
Today, the third generation—Michele’s sons Alberto and Stefano—have taken the reins, while the fourth generation, Matteo and Bianca, are already making their mark, honoring the legacy of their father and grandfather. The winery now cultivates 110 hectares of vineyards with the same commitment to quality and innovation that defined Michele Chiarlo, in regions considered among the world’s finest wine-producing zones.
The 2018 Barolo Cannubi is made from Nebbiolo grapes grown in the famed Cannubi vineyard, with vines averaging 32 years of age, at an altitude of 240 meters. Fermentation took place in oak vats with 20 days of skin contact, using a blend of traditional and modern techniques. The wine was then aged for two years in medium-sized oak barrels, followed by at least one year in bottle before release. The result is a wine of intensity, structure, complexity, and a signature expression of Cannubi’s terroir.
There’s nothing more to say about the 2018 Barolo Cannubi from Michele Chiarlo—except that it has many years ahead of it and is simply an experience you must live.
