Michele Chiarlo perfectly encapsulates the character of Piedmont, a renowned wine region in Italy and the world. Le Orme is a quintessential Barbera d’Asti and a hallmark of the Michele Chiarlo portfolio. Its name, meaning “footsteps” or “legacy,” reflects the winery’s deep-rooted tradition.
This Barbera is a blend of fruit from all four of Michele Chiarlo’s Barbera vineyards in the Nizza area, including the famed La Court estate. The grapes are cultivated in the Astian sands, light-colored soils rich in lime and microelements, which contribute to the wine’s vibrancy. A controlled fermentation process, including 10 days of skin contact in stainless steel tanks, results in the wine’s deep, rich color—characteristic of exceptional Barbera. It is aged for 16 months, including 3 months in large French oak barrels, followed by time in stainless steel and bottle.
Vintage Overview: The 2021 growing season started with significant winter precipitation, followed by a dry and warm March that led to early vine development. A cool, rainy spring slowed the vines, but summer brought hot, dry conditions, followed by a mild September. Harvest occurred on time, yielding ripe, balanced grapes.
Tasting Notes: This Barbera presents a brilliant ruby red color with violet highlights. The bouquet is rich with aromas of red cherry and red currants, and the palate is harmonious with a savory, well-structured finish.
Food Pairing: Ideal with pasta dishes in tomato sauce, pizza, and white fish.
- Made from Barbera grapes grown on all four of Michele Chiarlo’s Nizza estates, including the La Court vineyard
- 100% Barbera, surpassing the 90% DOCG requirement
- Aged for a minimum of 16 months for optimal balance and complexity
James Suckling –
“Quite an elegant nose, showing rich plum and berry fruit, together with notes of flowers and bark. Medium-bodied with a silky mouthfeel, but tight by the end, with a light bead of tannin poking through. Drink now.”
Wine Enthusiast –
“Aromas of juicy plums, macerated blackberries and intense purple flower notes dusted with savory spice pour from the glass. Fresh and fruit-forward, on the generous palate it gives tarter cherry notes with wild herbs finishing with subtle notes of roasted earth and anise”