Asili is a cru in the commune of Barbaresco, in Piedmont, Italy with widespread recognition for its terroir and its quality. [1] [2] It has ancient roots - it has been claimed that the name derives from Latin and is associated with a place of "asylum". [3]
It is 14 hectares in size and located in the centre of the commune, occupying the crest of the Asili hill with vineyards on all sides, [4] with the tiny hamlet of Asili near the crest, just southwest of the peak. The vines on the south-western aspect are particularly well-oriented, lying just to the east of the Borgata Asili.
Asili is located at a modest altitude (200-280m) for Barbaresco, and is accordingly relatively warm. The variety of soil - silt, loam and clay - is thought to be responsible for the wine's finesse. [5] Prominent winemaker Michele Chiarlo has claimed that the richness in magnesium and calcium are significant too. [6] It has recently taken over a neighboring part of Rabajà. [7]
The Bruno Giacosa Asili has been considered a "reference point" for all of Barbaresco in the words of the wine critic Robert Parker. [8]