At a glance

Producer

Michele Chiarlo

Region

Barolo, Piedmont, Italy

Grape variety

Nebbiolo

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$120-$170

Tasting profile

Intense aromas of wild cherry, rose petal, tar, licorice, violets and sweet spice. Taut, powerful structure, high-grip tannins, and fresh Nebbiolo acidity.

Evolution: Over the years, will develop notes of dried flowers, truffle, leather, forest floor, and more complex savory nuances, while tannins soften.

At peak: At peak, the wine will offer a harmonious, layered bouquet of red fruit, spice, florals, and earthy depth, with silky, resolved tannins.

Structure

Acidity

Pronounced, refreshing and age-worthy

Tannins

High, firm but refined

Alcohol

14.0% ABV (typical)

Aging potential

This single-vineyard Barolo from a top cru and a strong vintage will evolve gracefully for 20+ years.

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2027 to 2050

Optimal window

2025 to 2053

Current status

Structured and youthful, entering prime soon

Current condition

Still youthful with prominent tannin and energy; can be approached with extended decant, but patience will reward with added complexity.

2018 is a classic vintage with good structure and fresh acidity. Cerequio is one of Barolo's greatest crus and, under the skilled hand of Michele Chiarlo, this wine is not only collectible but genuinely age-worthy. Top Barolos easily mature for 20-30 years—2018 Cerequio is no exception, with decades of evolution ahead.

Food pairing

Ideal with rich dishes such as braised veal, osso buco, porcini risotto, wild mushroom tagliatelle, aged Parmigiano-Reggiano, or rack of lamb with rosemary.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (2+ hours) — Extended aeration allows youthful tannins to soften, reveals aromatic complexity, and integrates structure.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Integrated pest management; reduction of synthetic inputs; focus on biodiversity in vineyard; solar energy at winery; water conservation (drip irrigation, rainwater harvest); lighter glass bottles; local supply chain for packaging

Michele Chiarlo is a recognized leader in sustainable winegrowing in Piedmont and participates in Italian government sustainability programs (like Viva). Vineyards are farmed with a strong environmental focus but are not certified organic or biodynamic. The winery's efforts include solar energy, reduction in chemical use, conservation of water resources, and locally sourced materials for packaging. The use of lighter wine bottles and estate-based production reduce the carbon footprint. However, the lack of full organic or global carbon certification places it short of the highest marks. Overall, it is a sustainability role model in the region, but not an absolute leader.