Barolo Aeroplan Servaj DOCG 2011 Clerico

The Domenico Clerico 2015 Barolo Aeroplan Servaj draws its fruit from Serralunga d'Alba, specifically from the Baudana cru with vines planted in 1994. The wine shows the extra fiber and power that typically comes so naturally to this subzone. The bouquet is characterized by a point of bright fruit, like red cherry or cassis, backed by layers of smoke, ash, balsam herb, blood orange and earthy whiffs of white truffle. There is ample red fruit energy, but you get savory and smoky tones as well with clove, nutmeg and tar. It shows significant fruit weight and elegance. The richer soils of this site create a wine that can withstand a little more oak. Aeroplan Servaj is aged in barrique and then botte for 12 months each.

With the passing of Domenico Clerico, this historic winery is now managed by Winemaker and General Director Oscar Arrivabene. Some of the latest releases have been staggered, with the 2014 vintage hitting the market in March of last year and the 2015 vintage released in September 2019. The 2016 vintage is released on schedule. For this reason, I have included reviews of both 2015 and 2016 Baroli Pajana, Ciabot Mentin and Aeroplan Servaj. I've also included a review of the 2010 Barolo Per Cristina, a wine that was not made in 2009. Oscar tells me that he started making an expression from Bussia last year, so it should be interesting to see how that wine develops before its release in four years' time.

Dried boysenberries, red plums, rose petals, cedar, red licorice and caramelized oranges all come into view. The full-bodied palate weaves its way masterfully through layered, vibrant red fruit, casting a far-reaching web of intricate tannin detail and punchy acidity. Very long on the finish. Drink from 2023.