2021 Barolo, Ciabot Mentin, Domenico Clerico

Between the Pajana and the Ciabot Mentin, I have a preference for the latter. The Domenico Clerico 2021 Barolo Ginestra Ciabot Mentin comes from the higher part of the slope (with vines planted in 1978) and offers an extremely precise and finely stitched bouquet that incorporates elements of cassis, wild berry, herb, blue flower and crushed stone. The mineral signature is a little more pronounced in this wine, and it leans into iron ore and rusty nail. Like the Pajana, the tannins are quite firm, and the wine will need more time in bottle to integrate. This is a release of 5,500 bottles and 150 magnums. ~ (97) Monica Larner, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate 6-19-2025

A medium red color, the 2021 Barolo Ciabot Mentin is a more focused and linear wine coming from higher elevations and cooler exposure. Offering notes of red berries, rhubarb, cranberries, mint, cinnamon spice, and orange peel, it’s medium-bodied, focused, and long on the palate. This is my favorite of these wines and has fantastic energy and saltiness all around, followed by a long finish with hints of apricot or citrus. Drink over the coming 20 or so years. ~ (98) Audrey Frick, JebDunnuck.com 5-1-2025

Aromas of sweet violets, potpourri, dried cherries, pomegranates and hints of chocolate, licorice and blood oranges. Full-bodied on the palate, it shows delicate, ripe and velvety tannins that are tightly knit with acidity, pushing the finish in a sophisticated way. Best after 2027. ~ (96) James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com 4-17-2025