Simone Scaletta, Barolo DOCG Chirlet ‘Bricco San Pietro’ 2017 (Nebbiolo)

Simone Scaletta, a passionate winemaker based in Monforte d’Alba, Piemonte, is known for his meticulous, hands-on approach to crafting expressive, terroir-driven wines. His Barolo DOCG Chirlet ‘Bricco San Pietro’ 2017 comes from the esteemed Bricco San Pietro vineyard, a high-altitude site with limestone-rich soils that provide excellent drainage and minerality. The name Chirlet reflects the elegance and purity of this Barolo, which is aged in large oak barrels to preserve the Nebbiolo grape’s natural complexity and structure. The result is a refined yet powerful wine that showcases the best characteristics of both the vineyard and the vintage.

Appearance: Deep garnet with a brilliant brick-orange rim, characteristic of Nebbiolo’s natural ageing process. The wine is highly translucent, with a glowing core that hints at its vibrancy. Slow, pronounced legs suggest a well-structured body and balanced alcohol.

Aroma: Elegant and complex, with aromas of ripe red cherries, wild strawberries, and dried roses. Earthy notes of truffle, forest floor, and crushed leaves add depth, while hints of liquorice, leather, and balsamic emerge with time. Subtle undertones of cedar and sweet spice from oak ageing provide a refined warmth. As the wine opens, delicate orange zest and herbal notes bring freshness to the bouquet.

Taste: Silky yet structured, with a core of bright red fruit balanced by lively acidity. Flavours of sour cherry, cranberry, and dried raspberry lead into layers of anise, tobacco, and a hint of cocoa. The tannins are firm but well-integrated, providing grip without overshadowing the wine’s finesse. The minerality from the vineyard’s limestone soils adds a distinct, savoury edge, enhancing the overall balance.

Finish: Long and evolving, with lingering notes of dried roses, red berries, and a touch of spice. The tannins remain present yet refined, offering a smooth yet persistent grip. A final flourish of earthy truffle, balsamic, and cedar rounds out the experience, leaving a lasting impression of elegance and complexity.

Food Pairing: Pairs beautifully with braised venison with juniper berries, as the wine’s acidity and tannins cut through the richness while enhancing the dish’s wild, savoury notes. Also an excellent match with aged pecorino, where the wine’s depth and structure balance the cheese’s sharp, nutty character.