Clerico/Domenico Barolo Ginestra Pajana 2019

97 points Luca Gardini: "A classic, solid expression of Barolo from cru Monfortino. Nose with notes of wild plum and rhubarb, touches of Valdostan mint, finish with nuances of nutmeg. The mouthfeel is dense-compact, with salty-sapid tannins. It ends 97 with a fruity-mentholated aftertaste. (Sep 2023)"

96 points Audrey Frick (JebDunnuck.com): "Tasted side by side with Ciabot Mentin, the 2019 Barolo Ginestra Pajana is pure and ripe, with a bit of a darker tone comparatively, offering notes of cherry liqueur spiced with rosemary and rounded, floral tones. Medium to full-bodied, it is persistent, balanced, and concentrated, with ripe tannins, an even spine of acidity, and a long finish. With its notes of ripe raspberry, sweet herbs, and fresh soil, this is an impressive Barolo to drink 2024-2044. (5/4/23)"

95 points Monica Larner (Wine Advocate): "The front of this bottle now lists its MGA provenance, Ginestra. The Domenico Clerico 2019 Barolo Ginestra Pajana shows a more open initial impression (next to the Ciabot Mentin) with soft black fruit. The wine makes a bigger impact in terms of texture with firm structure and silky tannins. It is just a little more open-knit and accessible. Some 5,000 bottles were released, and for the first time, Pajana is aged only in large oak casks (measuring 5,000 liters). Drink: 2025-2045. (8/24/23)"

95 points Aldo Fiordelli (Decanter): "Planted between 1971 and 1991, Pajana is a vineyard at slightly lower altitude compared to Ciabot Mentin, facing southeast. This 2019 is full of restraint: dill and liquorice are to the fore, then fresh violets and cherry with citrus freshness. Firm and extracted, it shows fierce, chewy, dusty tannins with refreshing acidity balancing the warming alcohol. It will evolve well. Drinking Window: 2023-2045. (Feb 2023)"

95 points Kerin O'Keefe: "Balsamic aromas of menthol and eucalyptus mingle with iris and forest berry, on the stunning 2019 Barolo Pajana Ginestre from Domenico Clerico. Firm and elegantly structured, the precise palate features a core of raspberry and strawberry accented with notes of licorice, orange zest and white pepper. Taut, fine-grained tannins provide the backbone while bright acidity keeps it vibrant and balanced. Still youthfully austere, it shows fantastic aging potential. Drink 2029–2049. Abv: 14.5%. (Jul 2023)"

94 points Wine Spectator: "[$134 list] This Barolo features eloquent strawberry, cherry, currant and rose aromas and flavors. Gains depth from earth, wild herb and mineral accents, while the harmony and aftertaste are impressive. Resonates on the finish, remaining persistent and elegant. Best from 2026 through 2045. 375 cases made, 150 cases imported. (11/30/23)"