Established in 1881, Pio Cesare, now run by fifth generation Pio Boffa, was one of the very first producers to believe in the potential and quality of the great wines of Piemonte and to export to the UK. A ceaseless devotion to the individuality of each of the region’s wines informs Pio’s choices in the vineyards and cellar. He applies a ‘minimal intervention’ philosophy to wine making, creating wines that year after year, are ranked among the world’s best wines.
Pio Cesare own 52 hectares of vineyards in the hills of Barolo and Barbaresco, including some of the prime sites for growing Nebbiolo including 16 hectares of the ‘Ornato’ vineyard in Serralunga d’Alba, one of the best vineyards in the Barolo area. In 1985, Pio Cesare decided to select a small quantity of Nebbiolo from three different plots within the vineyard to create a Barolo that reflects the characteristics of Serralunga soil. The soil here is poor and compact, resulting in a wine of great structure and ageing potential. “Ornato” is only produced in outstanding years.
The grapes are hand-picked. After pressing, the grapes are fermented in stainless steel with skin contact for 15 days and aged in mid-toasted French oak for 36 months, 50% in new barriques and 50% in 25 hectolitre casks.
An unusually hot summer excellerated the start of the growing season. Fortunately, rain at the end of August cooled things down and slowed the ripening process. A dry autumn led to a delayed harvest, as well as wines with balance and freshness.
Elegant and fragrant with aromas of delicate florals, tar, sweet cherry and spice. Immediately approachable with excellent balance and structure. Polished tannins and a long, mineral finish.
Serve with red meat dishes, game or seasonal truffle, mature cheeses.
Serve at 16-18°C.
“Amazingly structured with tight and polished tannins that give this wine superb linear length and balance. Full body, bright and focused fruit. Goes on for minutes. Beautiful now but better in 2020.”, James Suckling: 98 Points
“Serralunga d’Alba. Just mid ruby with orange tinges. The nose is just a touch candied and with notes of tea leaves and cherry and a little minty. Mid weight and supple palate that is a little marked by oak, yet elegant, gripping and polished. Dried fruit spectrum with minty notes on the finish, yet totally convincing“, Walter Speller: 17/20
Barolo DOCG, Piemonte
100% Nebbiolo
Natural Cork
