PIO CESARE Barbaresco DOCG - Piedmont 2020 Bottle

Description

IN BRIEF
The Pio Cesare Barbaresco DOCG 2020 is an exceptional wine that reflects the heritage and quality of this esteemed Italian estate. Made from carefully selected Nebbiolo grapes sourced from sun-kissed family-owned vineyards, this vintage showcases a captivating ruby hue with garnet reflections. The complex aroma features enticing notes of ripe berries and sweet spices. On the palate, it offers a rich-bodied experience, characterized by a round mouthfeel and silky tannins that contribute to its smoothness. The finish is persistent, with a satisfying balsamic aftertaste. Scoring 96 points from James Suckling and 93 points from The Wine Advocate, it is perfect for immediate enjoyment or cellaring, promising a remarkable tasting experience that embodies the essence of Barbaresco.

ABOUT THIS WINE
The Pio Cesare Barbaresco DOCG 2020 is a distinguished wine that exemplifies the quality and heritage of this renowned Italian estate. Made from a meticulous selection of Nebbiolo grapes sourced from various areas within the Barbaresco region, this vintage embodies complexity and longevity, reflecting the care and expertise of the Pio Cesare family.

All the vineyards are family-owned and are strategically located on sun-kissed hillsides, benefiting from a temperate microclimate that imparts ideal characteristics to the fruit. This attention to detail ensures that the grapes used in this Barbaresco achieve the perfect balance of ripeness and acidity, critical for crafting a wine of great structure and refinement.

Visually, the 2020 Barbaresco presents a captivating hue reminiscent of ruby red, highlighted by striking garnet reflections that suggest maturity and depth. The olfactory profile is complex and layered, opening with enticing notes of ripe berries and evolving into nuances of sweet spices that add richness and intrigue.

On the palate, the Pio Cesare Barbaresco 2020 delivers a rich-bodied experience, exhibiting a round mouthfeel complemented by an energetic structure. The tannins provide considerable grip, contributing to the wine's robust character while ensuring a smooth and enjoyable sip. The finish is persistent and satisfying, characterised by a balsamic aftertaste that leaves a lasting impression.

In summary, the Pio Cesare Barbaresco DOCG 2020 is a remarkable expression of Nebbiolo, showcasing the estate's commitment to excellence in winemaking. Its complexity, balance, and potential for aging make it not only enjoyable now but also an excellent candidate for cellaring. Whether paired with hearty dishes or savoured on its own, this Barbaresco offers a truly exquisite tasting experience reflective of its prestigious origins.

JAMES SUCKLING 96 points
Very fine and polished with plum, strawberry and cedar aromas as well as an iodine, sea shell and chocolate undertone. Medium body, ultra-fine tannins and a beautiful finish. It’s poised and gorgeous. Such brightness and finesse with structure. So attractive now but will reward patience. Try after 2028.

THE WINE ADVOCATE 93 points
Reviewed by: Monica Larner
Drink Date: 2025 - 2038
Cesare Benvenuto of Pio Cesare tells me that what he loves most about the 2020 vintage is that it is, in his word: contemporary. "You can drink the wines immediately, the tannins are silky and hydrated and Nebbiolo shows a lovely quality of fruit," he says. The 2020 Barbaresco is a blend from four family-owned parcels in Treiso (Il Bricco, San Stefanetto and Bongiovanni) and Alba (Rocche di Massalupo), but 70% of the fruit is from Il Bricco, specifically from the higher part of the vineyard that extends over 400 meters in elevation. Fermentation is in stainless steel with gentle cap management and one month on the skins. The wine ages in oak for 30 months, with 90% of it going into botti, and 10% going into neutral barrique. Starting with the 2022 vintage, Austrian oak was introduced. This is a pretty wine with bright fruit, animating acidity and a silky finish.
Published: Jan 30, 2025

WINE ENTHUSIAST 93 points
Earthy and herbaceous, with hints of fruit leaves and a luscious aroma reminiscent of strawberry and red currant jam. Freshly ground spices add depth, including sweet cinnamon and savory thyme. On the palate, encounter a vintage charm with dried cherries, wild herbs, and elegant tannins, evoking the timeless allure of an old-school classic that is delicious now but will refine with age. — Jeff Porter

DECANTER 91 points
Tasted by: James Button
(at Windsor, 27 Sep 2024)
Drinking Window: 2025 - 2032
Floral and liquorice notes rise from the glass in an elegant fashion, introducing some tangy cherry and ripe dark berries. There's a ferrous element in the mouth around which is formed ripe red fruits and fine, sandy tannins, which are evident but quite well integrated. The finish is carried by good acidity, and while quite tight and fairly firm at this stage, this delicious Nebbiolo will be enjoyable over the next 10 to 12 years.

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ABOUT PIO CESARE
Pio Cesare is a revered winery located in the heart of the Piedmont region of Italy, renowned for its exceptional Barolo and Barbaresco wines. Founded in 1881 by Pio Cesare, the winery has remained a family-owned business for over 140 years, maintaining a strong commitment to quality and tradition while adapting to modern winemaking techniques.

The estate encompasses around 70 hectares of vineyards, primarily planted with the noble Nebbiolo grape, along with Barbera, Dolcetto, and other varietals. The vineyards are located in some of the most prestigious areas of Barolo, including Serralunga d'Alba and Barolo itself, where the unique terroir—characterised by clay-limestone soils and favourable microclimates—contributes to the richness and complexity of the wines.

Pio Cesare’s winemaking approach is rooted in a deep respect for the local heritage and traditions of Piedmontese viticulture. The grapes are meticulously hand-harvested and undergo careful fermentation and aging processes. The iconic Barolo wines are typically aged in a combination of large oak casks and small French oak barrels, allowing for the development of nuanced flavours and aromas while maintaining the varietal integrity of Nebbiolo.

The portfolio of Pio Cesare includes a range of highly acclaimed wines, with the Barolo and Barbaresco at the forefront. These wines are known for their elegance, structure, and aging potential, often exhibiting flavours of dark fruit, floral notes, and hints of spice and tar, characteristic of the Nebbiolo grape. The winery also produces a selection of Barbera and Dolcetto wines, showcasing the diversity of the region.

Under the stewardship of the fifth generation of the Cesare family, Pio Cesare continues to honour its rich heritage while embracing innovation, ensuring that it remains a prominent name in the world of Italian wine. The winery's dedication to quality and tradition makes it a cherished producer in Piedmont, celebrated for its exceptional wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region.