"Controlling 120 hectares across Piedmont, Chiarlo produces many wines, including a great Cerequio from La Morra. The scarce Riserva comes from a 0.9ha parcel, aged initially in tonneaux and then in casks. The nose is robust with cherry and rose-petal aromas, and just a hint of boiled sweets. Bright and limpid, this has charm and elegance rather than great weight and concentration. It's still tight thanks to good acidity, and the structure is deceptively discreet. Elegant, poised and polished, this is a well balanced and persistent Riserva." Decanter 95p
"Rose, crushed mint, red berry and baking spice aromas shape the nose on this fragrant red. Seamlessly combining structure and finesse, the focused palate delivers juicy Marasca cherry, pomegranate, licorice and menthol alongside firm, fine-grained tannins while fresh acidity keeps it balanced. It's still youthfully austere and promises excellent aging potential. Drink 2023–2043." Wine Enthusiast 96p
"Here is a special late-release Riserva from Michele Chiarlo. The 2013 Barolo Riserva Cerequio is a big wine that reveals extra tight tannins and concentrated richness that permeates its substantial textural fiber. Dark fruit aromas come forth with blackberry and dried cherry backed by spice, leather, tar and campfire ash. The wine shows the concentration and density of extended oak aging with tannins that feel sharp, young and astringent at this stage. This wine requires more cellar aging before it softens and finds better integration." Robert Parker 94p
