Ceretto Barbaresco Asili 2022

If there is one vineyard that could be considered the absolute standard from the appellation of Barbaresco DOCG, this would be Asili. Known for producing wines with consistent finesse and power, Barbarescos from Asili are also known for their great elegance and longevity. The Asili vineyard area owned by the Ceretto family is located behind the flagship estate that Bruno & Marcello Ceretto founded in 1973. Pictured on the wine's label, the vineyard is south-southwest facing and reaches up to 950 feet (290 meters) above sea level at its peak, or 'Bricco.' The soil here is marked by the heavy presence of Marl from Santa Agata Fossili and due to the vineyard's specific undulations and microclimate, it is considered a standalone pocket of production. The grapes from this unique site have been vinified separately as a single vineyard since the early 1970s and is one of the Ceretto family's most well known crus. Aromas of earth, strawberries, watermelon and orange peel, with restrained touches of licorice, cherrystones and dried flowers such as roses and violets. Medium-bodied yet weighty and concentrated, with velvety tannins and lifted acidity. More elegant than powerful, it needs time for better integration of its grainy finish. Try from 2026. The 2022 Barbaresco Asili is another impressive wine from Ceretto in this very challenging year. All of the inner perfume and nuance of Asili comes through in the glass. Sweet red fruit, kirsch, mint and sweet spice build over time. Asili is always Asili. That's pretty much all there is to it. Rich, dense and defined by bracing acidity, this red leaves a crisp, crunchy expression. Strawberry and cherry fruit is accented by floral, mineral and spice elements. Balanced and persistent in its linear profile, with mouthcoating tannins lining the chalky finish. Best from 2028 through 2043.