Michele Chiarlo - Barbaresco Faset - Barbaresco 2022
Michele Chiarlo, the iconic winemaker of Barolo
Michele Chiarlo has played a key role in the production of Italian fine wines and the international recognition of the Barolo appellation. His story as a wine producer began in 1956. From early on, he was convinced that the emancipation of the Piedmont hill has to be found in quality wines that highlight the greatest terroirs. In 1988, he bottled his first Cru of Barolo. Since then, he has never stopped fighting for this appellation and its great wines.
During his career, Michele Chiarlo has always followed his father's advice: "to be patient, make sacrifices but buy only vineyards in important positions". This led him to purchase the most prestigious crus in the Piedmont, in Barolo but also in Barbaresco.
Faset is among the most recognised areas of Barbaresco. The cru used to belong to the Conti Cocito di Neive in the 1900s. Now it is divided between various owners. The south facing vineyards form a large and steep slope, with the west side facing towards the Tanaro River. The parcel from which Michele Chiarlo's Barbaresco Faset is produced covers only 1ha of vines and is located on the top of the hill.
With the 2022 vintage, the wine unveils a new label.
The 2022 vintage
"The 2022 vintage in Piedmont was shaped by a mild winter with limited precipitation, followed by an equally dry spring that resulted in an early vegetative cycle. June and July remained hot and dry, but two timely rainfalls in the Barbaresco and Barolo areas – delivering around 120 mm of rain – helped restore balance in the grapes. Manual harvesting began on September 23rd, about ten days ahead of schedule. The grapes were harvested in exceptional condition, displaying perfect health and ripeness.
The 2022 vintage underscored the critical role of the vigneron’s expertise and intuition, as well as the vine’s natural adaptability to climatic challenges. These factors were instrumental in achieving this Barbaresco Faset, which is surprisingly expressive, beautifully balanced, and full of character."
Stefano Chiarlo, winemaker