PIO CESARE Barolo 'Pio' DOCG - Piedmont 2019 Bottle

Description

IN BRIEF
The Pio Cesare Barolo 'Pio' DOCG 2019 is a classic representation of this prestigious Italian wine, showcasing the elegance, structure, and harmony for which Barolo is renowned. Produced by the esteemed Pio Cesare winery, this vintage predominantly features Nebbiolo grapes sourced from key Barolo communes, reflecting the unique terroir of the Piedmont region. In the glass, it displays a deep ruby hue, indicative of its concentration. The nose offers rich aromas of ripe blackcurrants, cherries, and floral notes, enhanced by hints of spice and earth. Rated 95 points by The Wine Advocate, 94 points by James Suckling, and 93 points by Wine Enthusiast, this full-bodied Barolo has smooth, velvety tannins, making it an excellent choice for collectors and enthusiasts seeking sophistication and complexity.

ABOUT THIS WINE
The Pio Cesare Barolo 'Pio' DOCG 2019 is a classic interpretation of this prestigious Italian wine, embodying the elegance, structure, and harmony that Barolo is renowned for. With a focus on quality and tradition, Pio Cesare continues to produce exceptional wines that showcase the unique terroir of the Piedmont region.

The 2019 vintage features an impressive blend of traditional grape varieties, predominantly made from Nebbiolo grapes sourced from esteemed vineyards in key Barolo communes. The result is a wine that captures the essence of its origins, delivering rich flavours and a compelling aromatic profile.

In the glass, the 2019 Barolo exhibits a deep ruby hue, suggestive of the concentration and intensity it holds. The nose is inviting, revealing aromas of ripe red and dark fruits, such as cherry and blackberry, complemented by delicate floral notes, hints of rose petal, and subtle spices. This complex bouquet sets the stage for an exquisite tasting experience.

On the palate, the wine showcases excellent structure supported by soft, velvety tannins. Its well-integrated acidity enhances the overall balance, providing freshness and vibrancy that make it approachable even at a relatively young age. The flavour profile often includes layers of ripe fruit, earthy undertones, and a touch of tar, typical of great Barolos. The finish is long, leaving a lingering impression of the wine's sophistication.

Importantly, the Pio Cesare Barolo 'Pio' should not be dismissed as a "basic" or "regular" Barolo merely due to the absence of additional indications on the label. It exudes quality and craftsmanship, deserving recognition as a distinguished wine in its own right.

With its combination of immediate enjoyment and impressive ageing potential, the Pio Cesare Barolo 'Pio' DOCG 2019 stands as a superb choice for wine enthusiasts and collectors alike, promising an exceptional tasting experience that embodies the spirit of Barolo.

THE WINE ADVOCATE 95 points
Drink Date: 2024 - 2044 - Pio Cesare does a great job with its classic 2019 Barolo (in production since 1881). The bottom of the front label reads "Barolo Pio" in memory of the legendary Pio Boffa. He was a wine entrepreneur who gained the immediate respect and love of all those who knew him. He passed away tragically during the COVID-19 pandemic just as the vaccines were being rolled out. This is a large production of about 70,000 bottles with fruit sourced from across seven vineyards in five villages. Despite those ambitious numbers, the wine remains strictly focused on bright Nebbiolo fruit with red cassis and aniseed. The finish is smooth with tannins that elegantly dissolve over the palate. - Monica Larner

JAMES SUCKLING 94 Points
20 Jun, 2023 – Lovely perfumes of flowers, fresh strawberries and raspberries follow through to a medium- to full-bodied palate with fine tannins that run the length of the wine. Citrus and spice undertones. Finishes long and intense. Tannic finish. Start drinking after 2026.

WINE ENTHUSIAST 93 points
A mixture of red berries, including raspberry and currant, combined with allspice and earth-driven spices. The wine is pretty and lifted, with dark cherry flavors on the palate. Superfine tannins give the wine an elegant structure that highlights the chalky mineral notes, leather and tobacco. Drink now–2040. — Jeff Porter

VINOUS 91 points
The 2019 Barolo Pio is classy and nuanced to the core. Dried herbs, tobacco, mint, spice, orange peel, crushed flowers and sweet red cherry fruit all grace this enticing, layered Barolo. All the elements are very nicely balanced. - 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.