About Elio Grasso Winery
Elio Grasso is one of the leading producers of Barolo. Located in Monforte d'Alba, the estate has worked for decades with respect for the terroir and a clear focus on individual crus. Gavarini Chiniera is one of the estate's flagship wines, originating from a vineyard at an altitude of 400 meters, with a southeasterly exposure and soils rich in limestone and clay. The estate's philosophy revolves around precision, purity, and allowing each plot to express itself.

The power of the 2016 vintage
2016 is considered one of the great, classic Barolo vintages of this century. Thanks to a cool and long growing season, the Nebbiolo grapes ripened slowly and evenly. The resulting wines combine depth, aromatic freshness, and a firm yet refined structure. Gavarini Chiniera 2016 is a textbook example: intense and precise, with a clear expression of the terroir.

Vinification and maturation
The grapes are harvested by hand and undergo a long maceration process of approximately 30 days. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel. The wine then matures for over 30 months in large Slavonian oak barrels, after which it rests for a further few months in the bottle. The use of large oak barrels instead of barriques provides a subtle support, allowing the fruit and structure of the Nebbiolo to remain at the forefront.

Tasting notes
In the glass, the wine displays a deep ruby red color. The nose is complex and intense: ripe cherries, violets, mint, black tea, cedar, and light graphite notes. Swirling also reveals notes of orange peel, lavender, spiciness, and a hint of tobacco. The palate is powerful and compact, with layered tannins beautifully balanced by the crisp acidity. The finish is long, chalky, and refined, with lingering impressions of red fruit, earth, and spice.

Wine journalist review
The 2016 Gavarini Chiniera received high scores from several international critics. The wine was praised for its vertical style, precision, enormous tension, and ability to combine both power and subtlety. The tannin structure was described as impressive yet perfectly balanced, and its aging potential extends well beyond 2040.

Why order this Barolo?
For lovers of classic, terroir-inspired Barolo, this is a wine not to be missed. The combination of an exceptional vintage, a high-altitude cru, and Elio Grasso's expertise results in a wine that is already impressive and will only improve over the coming decades. The 2016 Gavarini Chiniera is both a feast for the table and a valuable addition to any cellar.

Would you like to order Elio Grasso wines online?
The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you pick it up, you'll often receive a nice discount. You'll see your discount immediately when you select "Pick up" at checkout. We're located in Dordrecht, just off the A16 motorway, with ample parking. Click here for our address.

You can read the full wine reviews from Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator, among others.

Need advice on finding the perfect wine to pair with your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. Free for Grand Cru customers.

Wine and food pairings with Gavarini Chiniera 2016

• Beef tenderloin with black truffle and rosemary jus – a perfect match with the earthy and floral notes of the wine

• Rack of lamb with thyme and garlic – the spicy and juicy meat underlines the structure of the Barolo

• Porcini and sage ravioli – umami and earthiness enhance the wine's complexity

• Roasted mushrooms with polenta – a vegetarian combination that complements the wine texture elegantly

• Wild stew with laurel and blackberries – rich flavours bring out the full length and intensity of the wine

• Mature hard cheeses such as pecorino or old cheese – the salt and fat provide contrast to the acidity and tannins