2021 Barolo Tortoniano

Robert Parker - 93

The Michele Chiarlo 2021 Barolo Tortoniano is a blend of fruit from various sites, including Cerequio. The wine's personality remains very bright and pretty; however, you get more bang for your buck in this vintage that is naturally balanced and focused. Tart cassis, forest berry, blue flower and toasted spice rise to the top. Those pretty aromas are supported by the wine's tightly knit texture and fine tannins. Give this bottle a few more years of cellar aging.

James Suckling - 93

Restrained, if not low-key at the first impression, with small red-fruit aromas and lots of licorice. Minty and tight. Medium- to full-bodied, it seems built to last, with firm, dusty tannins and crisp acidity allied to a fresh fruit profile. Still young. Try from 2027.

Wine Spectator - 93

Like a breath of fresh air, this delicate, refined red displays cherry, strawberry, currant and hibiscus flavors. Feels crisp on the finish, as much from tart acidity as the tannins.

Falstaff - 92

Notes of cherry, light red berries and cedar wood on the nose. Also floral hints. Lively acidity on the palate, cranberry, fine-grained tannin, long finish. Fresh!

Vinous - 91

The 2021 Barolo Tortoniano is a classy, elegant wine. Crushed flowers, silky red-toned fruit, cinnamon and dried flowers caress the palate. Medium in body and quite open.

Decanter - 91

A blend of plots in the township of Novello with younger vines from the Cerequio MGA. The name Tortoniano references the Tortonian-era soil that provides a foundation of marine origin limestone-rich marl. Vibrant aromas of tea, truffle and orange rind emerge from a backdrop of red berries. A midweight proposition, this sports brisk acidity giving a streamlined flow. Mint-inflected raspberry is gently enfolded in soft, powdery tannins. Harmonious and immediately pleasing, with sufficient substance and depth for the next eight years.