PIO CESARE Barbaresco 'Pio' DOCG - Piedmont 2018 HALF VEG/VGN

Description

IN BRIEF
The 2018 Pio Cesare Barbaresco is a stunning expression of the traditional craftsmanship synonymous with this esteemed Piedmont estate. Sourced exclusively from prestigious vineyards, including “Il Bricco” and the celebrated San Stefanetto, this vintage embodies the unique terroir of Barbaresco. Aged for 30 months in a blend of French oak barriques, it exhibits remarkable elegance. Critics acclaim this wine with high scores: 94 points from James Suckling, who lauds its fine, racy tannins and beautiful finish; 93 points from The Wine Advocate for its silky mouthfeel and integrated tannins; and 92 points from Vinous, highlighting its polished character and delightful flavours. This Barbaresco promises exceptional ageing potential, perfect for pairing with rich dishes and showcasing Pio Cesare's winemaking excellence.

ABOUT THIS WINE
The 2018 Pio Cesare Barbaresco is a remarkable wine that exemplifies the traditional craftsmanship and heritage of the Pio Cesare estate, one of the esteemed producers in the Piedmont region of Italy. This vintage embraces the classic "formula" employed by renowned Barbaresco families, capturing the unique characteristics of various terroirs within the appellation.

The grapes for this Barbaresco are sourced exclusively from the family’s distinguished vineyards, particularly the renowned “Il Bricco” estate and the celebrated hill of San Stefanetto, both situated in the village of Treiso. This thoughtful sourcing ensures that the resulting wine reflects the essence of these exceptional vineyard sites.

The vinification process involves fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, with skin contact lasting for 20 days. This careful method aids in extracting flavours and colour while preserving the fresh fruit characteristics that define Barbaresco. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes an ageing process where 35% is matured in French oak barriques, one-third of which are new, for 30 months. The remaining 65% spends three years in larger French oak casks ranging from 20 to 50 hectolitres, allowing for a gentle integration of oak influence without overwhelming the wine's inherent fruitiness.

The 2018 vintage is characterised as a classic Barbaresco, marked by its elegance and velvety texture. The palate reveals ripe and spicy fruit flavours, complemented by strong yet refined tannins that contribute to its structural integrity. With good concentration and balance, this wine showcases the finesse that Barbaresco is known for.

With its remarkable ageing potential, the 2018 Pio Cesare Barbaresco promises a long life ahead, making it an exciting choice for both immediate enjoyment and cellaring. Its sophisticated profile ensures it pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, including rich meats and aged cheeses, providing an exquisite tasting experience that reflects the artistry of Pio Cesare winemaking.

JAMES SUCKLING 94 points
Strawberries with hints of walnuts, asphalt and bark. Dried flowers, too. Full-bodied with fine, racy tannins and a very long, pretty finish. Refined tannins. Shows excellent length for the vintage. Beautiful now, but better in two or three years.

THE WINE ADVOCATE 93 points
Reviewed by: Monica Larner
Drink Date: 2023 - 2038
Pio Cesare excels when it comes to the classics, and this wine is one of those. The 2018 Barbaresco (released one year later compared to its peers) delivers some mild candied raspberry ripeness with lilac, tarry smoke, cedarwood and spice. The mouthfeel is silky smooth with softly integrated tannins.
Published: Aug 11, 2022

VINOUS 92 points
The 2018 Barbaresco Pio is classy, elegant and wonderfully polished. Sweet spice, cedar, tobacco, leather and dried cherry all open effortlessly. This gracious, mid-weight Barbaresco has plenty to offer in an up-front, early drinking style. The silky, ethereal qualities of Nebbiolo are very much in evidence. - Antonio Galloni

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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.