PIO CESARE Barbaresco 'Il Bricco di Treiso' - Piedmont 2021 Bottle

Description

IN BRIEF
The Pio Cesare Barbaresco 'Il Bricco' 2021 is an exceptional Nebbiolo that captures the elegance and complexity of the Barbaresco region. This vintage showcases traditional winemaking practices, presenting a stunning ruby colour and an inviting bouquet of ripe cherry, rose, and violet, with hints of spice and earthy undertones. On the palate, it offers beautifully balanced refined tannins and lively acidity that enhance its structure. Flavours of ripe red fruits and floral notes culminate in a long, persistent finish. Scoring 98 points from James Suckling and 95 points from The Wine Advocate, this wine pairs beautifully with rich pasta dishes, roasted meats, and aged cheeses, making it perfect for both immediate enjoyment and long-term cellaring.

ABOUT THIS WINE
The Pio Cesare Barbaresco 'Il Bricco' 2021 is a remarkable expression of Nebbiolo from the esteemed Piedmont region, showcasing the elegance and complexity for which Barbaresco is renowned. This vintage exemplifies the traditional winemaking practices that Pio Cesare is celebrated for, resulting in a wine that captures the essence of its terroir.

In the glass, the 2021 Barbaresco reveals a beautiful ruby colour, hinting at its richness and depth. The nose is inviting, offering a sophisticated bouquet of ripe cherry aromas intertwined with floral notes of rose and violet. These vibrant primary scents are complemented by subtle hints of spice and earthy undertones, adding layers of complexity to the aromatic profile.

On the palate, the 'Il Bricco' is beautifully balanced, exhibiting refined tannins that provide a smooth, velvety mouthfeel. The lively acidity adds freshness and vibrancy, enhancing the overall structure of the wine. Flavours of ripe red fruits and additional floral notes harmonise beautifully, culminating in a long, persistent finish that lingers on the palate, showcasing the wine’s finesse.

This Barbaresco is sophisticated and nuanced, making it a pleasure to enjoy in its youth, yet it also possesses the potential to age gracefully over the next several years. Its well-integrated tannins and acidity will enable it to develop even further complexity with time in the cellar.

The 2021 Pio Cesare Barbaresco 'Il Bricco' pairs beautifully with a range of dishes, including rich pasta dishes, roasted meats, and aged cheeses, further enhancing the overall dining experience.

In summary, the Pio Cesare Barbaresco 'Il Bricco' 2021 exemplifies the artistry of Piedmont winemaking. With its captivating aromas, elegant palate, and potential for aging, it is an excellent choice for both current enjoyment and future cellaring, making it a true gem for wine enthusiasts.

JAMES SUCKLING 98 points
Intense aromas of oyster shell and dark fruit, such as black cherries and blackberries, together with some black olives, dark mushrooms and just a touch of clove. It’s medium- to full-bodied with linear and long tannins and a powerful finish. Yet, it’s polished and refined at the same time. Needs time to open, but there’s so much going on here. March 2025 release. Drink after 2028.

THE WINE ADVOCATE 95 points
Reviewed by: Monica Larner
Drink Date: 2026 - 2043
With fruit from the village of Treiso, the Pio Cesare 2021 Barbaresco Il Bricco has a defined mineral character of dusty chalk that lifts up above blackberry and dried blueberry. There are background hints of lilac, dried iris root, mint and garden herb. What sets this wine apart, however, are those elegantly chalky mineral nuances that sit nicely against powdery tannins.
Published: Jun 19, 2025

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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.