The 2020 Michele Chiarlo Barbaresco Faset is a Nebbiolo varietal from the renowned Piedmont region in Italy, specifically from the Barbaresco sub-region and Faset sub-appellation. This red wine is produced by Michele Chiarlo and is sealed with a traditional cork closure.
The wine has garnered high praise from multiple reviewers, with scores consistently in the 90s. Jeb Dunnuck awarded it 94 points, describing it as having "a more amplified personality" with notes of "licorice, cracked peppercorn, leather, and raspberry liqueur." Dunnuck suggests holding off on drinking this wine for another 6-12 months, recommending an optimal drinking window between 2025 and 2037.
Decanter's review also highlights the wine's vibrant character, giving it a score of 93. The reviewer notes its "wild flowers and red summer berries" on the nose, calling it "expressive and lively." The wine is described as "direct and sleek" with "scintillating acidity," integrated tannins, and a "juicy, sapidity" that contributes to its overall structure and frame. This review suggests drinking the wine between 2024 and 2034.
Vinous, with a score of 91, praises the wine's "wild cherry, mocha, new leather, and sweet spice" profile. Antonio Galloni mentions that this Barbaresco offers "tons of immediacy," making it suitable for drinking now and over the next few years. The wine is noted for its "lifted floral and spice-infused aromatics" and "supple, silky" texture.
James Suckling, who gave the wine 93 points, highlights its "dried cherries and raspberries" along with "dried roses, nut shell, and spice box." He describes the palate as "vivid and dynamic" with "compact tannins that are velvety in texture," recommending to try it after two or three years for the best experience.
Wine Enthusiast also awarded it 94 points, with Jeff Porter noting its "pure and vibrant aromas of cranberry and wild strawberry" and a palate defined by "electric and vivid wild red-fruit flavors." Porter emphasizes the wine's "charm and finesse," suggesting it is ready to drink now through 2035.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate rated it 93 points, praising its "pretty ensemble of wild berry or raspberry aromas" and elements of "rose, lavender bud, light cinnamon stick, and licorice root." The review highlights the wine's smooth integration and polished, mid-weight mouthfeel.
Overall, the 2020 Michele Chiarlo Barbaresco Faset is characterized by its vibrant fruit flavors, balanced acidity, and well-integrated tannins, making it a noteworthy choice for both immediate enjoyment and cellaring.