Ciabot Mentin Ginestra Barolo (1982)

About this wine

The 1982 Barolo Ciabot Mentin Ginestra from Domenico Clerico offers a rich bouquet of dried cherries, leather, and earthy notes, reflecting its age and the Nebbiolo grape's character. On the palate, it presents a harmonious blend of mature fruit flavors, subtle spice, and a lingering finish. This wine hails from the Ginestra cru in Monforte d'Alba, a region renowned for producing some of Barolo's most esteemed wines. The 1982 vintage was the inaugural release of this label, marking a significant milestone for the winery. Over the decades, this Barolo has developed a depth and complexity that showcases the aging potential of Nebbiolo from this esteemed vineyard.

About the grape

Nebbiolo is a grape variety native to Italy's Piedmont region, first documented in the 13th century. Its name likely derives from 'nebbia,' the Italian word for fog, referencing the mist that envelops vineyards during its late October harvest. Nebbiolo is known for its high tannins and acidity, requiring careful cultivation and extended aging to develop its full character. In the 1982 Domenico Clerico Barolo Ciabot Mentin Ginestra, Nebbiolo was sourced from the Ginestra vineyard in Monforte d'Alba, a site renowned for producing some of the most robust and age-worthy Barolos.

Quick facts

• 🏡 The name 'Ciabot Mentin' combines 'Ciabot,' meaning a small house among the vines, and 'Mentin,' the nickname of the previous owner, Clemente, from whom Domenico Clerico purchased the vineyard in 1981.
• 🍷 The 1982 vintage of Barolo Ciabot Mentin Ginestra was the inaugural release of this wine, marking the beginning of its legacy in the Barolo denomination.
• 🌱 The Ginestra vineyard, where this wine originates, is renowned for its calcareous and clay-rich soils, contributing to the wine's distinctive structure and complexity.
• 🚀 Domenico Clerico's innovative approach in the 1980s, including meticulous vineyard management and modern winemaking techniques, helped elevate Barolo's global reputation.
• ⏳ The 1982 Barolo Ciabot Mentin Ginestra has been praised for its longevity, with well-stored bottles continuing to offer exceptional drinking experiences decades after release.

Palate profile

Producer

Domenico Clerico, established in 1976 in Monforte d'Alba, Italy, began when Domenico took over his father's small farm, transitioning from selling grapes to producing his own wines. He was a pioneer in the modernist movement in Barolo, introducing green harvesting and aging wines in French barriques, which was a departure from traditional methods. In 2011, the winery moved into a modern facility designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding hillsides, reflecting the innovative spirit of its founder. After Domenico's passing in 2017, his wife Giuliana and the dedicated team continued his legacy, maintaining the winery's reputation for producing exceptional Barolo wines.