Domenico Clerico, Barolo Pajana 2007

The Pajana vineyard takes its name from the old road that runs along the top of the hill, an ancient pass that connected Monforte d'Alba and Serralunga, which is still accessible on foot today. A vineyard in flourishing balance, with scrupulous attention to the vinification, to carry its exuberance in the glass: a certainty for the last 30 years.

In 1977 Domenico Clerico decided to leave his job as a salesman in order to work full time in his family’s estate. After several experiments in the cellar, Domenico’s friends persuaded him to make wine on a permanent basis. Vineyards were purchased in some of the most interesting crus of Monteforte: Ginestra in 1983, Pajana in 1989 and the last, Mosconi, in 1985. Domenico, who tragically passed away earlier in July 2017, is of the region’s great legends, as an advocate for the modern Barolo winemaking philosophy of short maceration and ageing in barriques. The wines display polish, structure and - most importantly - balance.