Clerico’s 2000 Ciabot Mentin Ginestra has fared better than the Pajana, perhaps owing to the vineyard’s more sheltered south-west exposure. Layers of mint, spices and crushed rocks add complexity to the generous fruit. The finish remains vibrant, textured and polished, with a prominent scent of oak that is typical of Clerico’s wines during this era. I don’t see much upside in the Ciabot, but it should hold for another handful of years. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2018.
Domenico Clerico’s 2000s have not fared as well as I had hoped. Curiously, wines from my cellar were fresher than bottles I tasted in Italy.