A family story rooted in Modena

Opening of Trattoria dell'Artigliere, Modena

Before becoming a winegrower, Cleto Chiarli moved with his wife Lucia and their children to Modena, where he opened a trattoria with rooms and a shop in the historic centre. His Lambrusco, produced in the adjoining cellar, quickly won local acclaim.

Introduction of the Mushroom Cork

To better preserve the liveliness of Lambrusco, Cleto introduces the mushroom cork — an absolute novelty at the time that anticipates the sparkling spirit of Modenese wine.

First Exports of Chiarli Lambrusco

Chiarli Lambrusco crosses Italy's borders, accompanying Modenese and Italian emigrants around the world. The wine becomes a symbol of Emilia abroad.

Acquisition of Villa Cialdini

The Chiarli family acquires Villa Cialdini, historic residence of General Enrico Cialdini — a key figure of the Italian Risorgimento — and its lands, laying the foundations of one of the most representative estates for Grasparossa di Castelvetro and of the future Cleto Chiarli Tenute Agricole project.

"Mention Honorable" at the Paris Universal Exhibition

Chiarli is awarded at the Paris Expo with the "Mention Honorable", a recognition that consecrates Modenese Lambrusco on the international stage. In the same period, annual production surpasses 100,000 bottles.

First Autoclaves in Emilia-Romagna

Chiarli is the first company to introduce autoclaves in the region, adopting the Martinotti Method to produce sparkling wines in a controlled way and with superior quality.

Start of the Clonal Selection Study

Work begins on the recovery and selection of historic Sorbara and Grasparossa clones, to preserve the authentic identity and quality of Lambrusco.

New Plantings with the GDC System

Modern GDC (Geneva Double Curtain) training systems are adopted, ensuring healthier grapes and more balanced ripening in the Emilian vineyards.

Mauro and Anselmo Chiarli

With the fourth generation in the company, a phase of renewal begins: massal selection of Lambrusco varieties is launched and new vineyard management techniques are introduced.

Launch of Vecchia Modena Brut

During the Assoenologi National Congress, Vecchia Modena is presented — a Lambrusco Sorbara Brut with a refined and modern style, a symbol of a new era for quality Lambrusco.

Inauguration of Tenuta Cialdini, Castelvetro

Tommaso Chiarli

The fifth generation carries forward the family dream. Tommaso Chiarli takes on the role of Communication and Marketing Director of Cleto Chiarli in 2017 and is the brand's ambassador in Italy and abroad.

Opening of the Chiarli Archive and Gallery

At Villa Cialdini, the Galleria Chiarli opens — a new exhibition space hosting a curated selection from the historic Chiarli Archive, recognised for its national historical significance.