Pio Cesare

Piemontese classics from a 'modern traditionalist'

This historic family-owned estate is named after its founder Cesare Pio, who established the business in 1881. The winery is based in Alba, in the heart of Langhe in Piemonte and is now run by Federica Boffa and Cesare Benvenuto, the fifth generation of the family. Pio Cesare vineyards are nestled between the Alps and the Mediterranean Sea. The surrounding hills are ideal for vine growing with unique micro-climates and varying exposures. The confluence of cold Alpine air with warm maritime moisture regularly creates a mist, or ‘nebbia’, over the foothills, giving name to Nebbiolo, the great red variety of the region.

BAROLO PIONEERS IN THE UK 

Pio Cesare developed Barolo’s reputation overseas in the 1950s by being one of the first producers to export the wine to the UK. The founder’s great grandson Pio Boffa was deeply convinced of the importance of cultivating and growing owned land to produce high quality wines and played a key role in the acquisition of vineyards in the same locations where Cesare Pio used to buy his grapes from.

VINEYARDS    

Pio Cesare own 80 hectares of vineyards in the Langhe Region, including 30 ha in the Barolo region and 25 ha in the Barbaresco regions. In the hills of Barolo and Barbaresco, the family own several premium sites that were selected over the generations for their aspect, microclimate and soli composition. In the Barolo region the vineyards are located across 5 different communes: Serralunga d’Alba (Ornato, Serra, Briccolina, Lirano and Colombaro), Monforte d’Alba (Mosconi), Grinzane Cavour (Gustava and Garretti), La Morra (Roncaglie), Novello (Ravera). In the Barbaresco region the vineyards are located in Treiso (Bricco di Treiso, San Stunet, Bongiovanni) and San Rocco Seno d’Elvio (Rocche Massalupo). The family firmly believes that the true essence of each region can be best captured by blending various terroirs. Each terroir brings forth distinct characteristics that harmonize with one another. This philosophy is expressed in their flagship wines, Barolo and Barbaresco Pio, which continue to embody the timeless recipe of traditional wines from the 19th century. Since the 2015 vintage and the whole wine production comes from only family-owned vineyards.

Pio Cesare is also dedicated to the production of white wines, being the first producer in the Langhe region growing Chardonnay in the 1980s. Today they continue their experimentation with the white wines with their latest addition to the portfolio being Blanc Sauvignon and Rosy. Blanc Sauvignon is a 100% Sauvignon Blanc made from Il Bricco vineyard in Treiso and partially aged in oak barrels, Rosy is a full bodied yet elegant rosé made from Nebbiolo grapes sourced from the same vineyard. Both wines, made in very limited quantities, show the typical structure and complexity coming from Il Bricco terroir and can age beautifully in the bottle.

MINIMAL INTERVENTION WINEMAKING

Pio Cesare Nebbiolos are made with short macerations, separate lot fermentation, judicious selection from large cask and barrel ageing. The wines reflect the terroir rather than the winemaking.

THE CLASSIC RANGE

Pio Cesare portfolio includes seven ‘classic’ wines representing the significant and diverse terroirs of Piemonte (Barolo, Barbaresco, Nebbiolo d’Alba, Barbera d’Alba, Dolcetto d’Alba, l’Altro Chardonnay and Gavi). Pio Cesare has established itself as a benchmark producer of the classic wines of the region, particularly Barolo. Pio Boffa decided to include this message on the Classic Barolo label: “”Please don’t call it regular”, in order to start the discussion around the true value of the unique wines from the Barolo. They are world-renowned wines with a staggering history.

SINGLE VINEYARDS

Forth generation Pio Boffa created a limited range of ‘single vineyard’ wines; Barolo ‘Ornato’, Barbaresco ‘Il Bricco’, Barbera ‘Fides’ and ‘Piodilei’ Chardonnay. The latest single vineyard wine added to the Pio Cesare portfolio is Barolo Mosconi, from the eponymous vineyard, first vintage release 2015. These collectables are only produced in the very best vintages, offering a more modern interpretation of some of the great individual sites in Piemonte, an unparalleled concentration and a remarkable ageing potential.

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Gavi 2022 — Pio Cesare

Gavi 2022

Gavi DOCG, Piemonte

100% Cortese

Tasting note

Pio Cesare’s Gavi has a lovely freshness, with aromas of citrus zest and apple, ripe fruit and mouthwatering zestiness on the palate. A hint of spice makes this Gavi very food-friendly and appetizing. It is greatly balanced and elegant with a long, expressive finish.

 

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Pio Cesare L’Altro Chardonnay 2021 — Pio Cesare

Pio Cesare L’Altro Chardonnay 2021

Langhe DOC, Piemonte

90% Chardonnay
10% Sauvignon Blanc

Tasting note

L’Altro or ‘the other’ is Pio’s second Chardonnay. It is nevertheless full of character and intensity with lovely citrus and apple pie notes. It is full-bodied, rounded with pleasant acidity on the finish.

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'Piodilei' Chardonnay 2020 — Pio Cesare

'Piodilei' Chardonnay 2020

Langhe DOC, Piemonte

100% Chardonnay

Tasting note

Burgundian in style, this superior Chardonnay shows complexity on the nose and palate. Notes of apple, citrus, stone fruit and vanilla. It is full-bodied and creamy with ripe fruit and an attractive minerality and freshness on the finish.

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'Piodilei' Chardonnay 2019 — Pio Cesare

'Piodilei' Chardonnay 2019

Langhe DOC, Piemonte

100% Chardonnay

Tasting note

Burgundian in style, this superior Chardonnay shows complexity on the nose and palate. Notes of apple, citrus, stone fruit and vanilla. It is full-bodied and creamy with ripe fruit and an attractive minerality and freshness on the finish.

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Blanc Langhe Sauvignon 2022 — Pio Cesare

Blanc Langhe Sauvignon 2022

Langhe, DOC

100% Sauvignon Blanc

Tasting note

The wine shows aromas of citrus and hints of tropical fruit, on the palate has a creamy texture with a long minerally finish.

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Blanc Langhe Sauvignon 2021 — Pio Cesare

Blanc Langhe Sauvignon 2021

Langhe, DOC

100% Sauvignon Blanc

Tasting note

The wine shows aromas of citrus and hints of tropical fruit. On the palate is refreshing with a long minerally finish.

 

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Rosy Langhe Rose 2021 — Pio Cesare

Rosy Langhe Rose 2021

Langhe, DOC

Nebbiolo
Syrah

Tasting note

The wine was named “Rosy” after their founder’s granddaughter. Rosy has glorious amber hues, and on the nose showcases spiced red berries, and touches of mountain herbs. With lively acidity and great structure, the finish is full of spice and red berries.

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Moscato d'Asti 2022 — Pio Cesare

Moscato d'Asti 2022

Moscato d’Asti DOCG

100% Moscato

Tasting note

Aromas of stone fruit with citrus and honey. The palate is semi-sweet with a delicate fizz and attractive apricot flavours. Produced in very limited quantity.

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Vermouth — Pio Cesare

Vermouth

Piemonte, Italy

Chardonnay
Moscato Bianco

Tasting note

“Chardonnay, Moscato Bianco macerated with more than 25 botanicals and sweetened with burnt sugar. Candied orange, cinnamon, and vanilla redolent of panettone; balsamic tarragon and polished wood nuances.” – Michaela Morris

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Barolo Chinato — Pio Cesare

Barolo Chinato

Piemonte, Italy

Nebbiolo

Tasting note

The ideal digestif made with China Calissaja and Succirubra barks that macerate in the estate’s classic Barolo for 21 days.The notes of  gentian roots, rhubarb, cardamom seeds, sweet and bitter orange blend seamlessly with the purity of Nebbiolo and create an everlasting, rich finish.

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Dolcetto d'Alba 2020 — Pio Cesare

Dolcetto d'Alba 2020

Langhe DOC, Piemonte

100% Dolcetto

Tasting note

Deep coloured, the Dolcetto has lovely berry and black cherry fruit with a slight herbal undertone. Fragrant and structured with good body and a touch of spice on the finish.

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Pio Cesare Barbera d’Alba 2020 — Pio Cesare

Pio Cesare Barbera d’Alba 2020

Langhe DOC, Piemonte

100% Barbera

Tasting note

Aromas of blackberries, plums and ripe berry fruit with a touch of spice and tobacco. On the palate this wine is supple and juicy with a great fruit and complexity.

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Nebbiolo 2019 — Pio Cesare

Nebbiolo 2019

Langhe DOC, Piemonte

100% Nebbiolo

Tasting note

Fragrant ripe berry fruits and floral touches, with rounded and well integrated tannins that give this wine structure and longevity. The wine is rich, full-bodied, with a hint of gentle toasting.

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Barbaresco 2018 — Pio Cesare

Barbaresco 2018

Barbaresco DOCG, Piemonte

100% Nebbiolo

Tasting note

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. (Monica Larner, Wine Advocate)

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Barolo Pio 2019 — Pio Cesare

Barolo Pio 2019

Barolo DOCG, Piemonte

100% Nebbiolo

Tasting note

This classic highlights the purity of Nebbiolo with lifted tart red fruit notes combined with sweet and savory spices followed by subtle notes of flowers and earth. Sour cherry flavors define the palate with gentle tannins, savory herbs and a vibrant finish. Drink now–2035 (Jeff Porter, Wine Enthusiast).

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Barolo Pio 2018 — Pio Cesare

Barolo Pio 2018

Barolo DOCG, Piemonte

100% Nebbiolo

Tasting note

Aromas of spicy red cherries on a loamy underlay, together with savory twists of forest floor and walnut shell. Some orange rind, too. Full-bodied with very fine, firm and silky tannins and lots of long, focused fruit and spice flavor. Good structure for 2018. Needs a year or two to fully knit together. Best from 2024. (James Suckling)

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Barbera d'Alba Superiore 'Fides' Vigna Mosconi 2019 — Pio Cesare

Barbera d'Alba Superiore 'Fides' Vigna Mosconi 2019

Langhe DOC, Piemonte

100% Barbera

Tasting note

Full body, balance and concentration. Ripe fruit with a spicy edge. Can be laid down for a very long life in the cellar.

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Barbaresco 'Il Bricco' 2019 — Pio Cesare

Barbaresco 'Il Bricco' 2019

Barbaresco DOCG, Piemonte

100% Nebbiolo

Tasting note

A solid and powerful Barbaresco with fantastic depth of fruit and layers of tannins. Full and so deep and focused, with great length and structure. Bark, berry, mineral and deep terroir and gravitas..(James Suckling)

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Barbaresco 'Il Bricco' 2018 — Pio Cesare

Barbaresco 'Il Bricco' 2018

Barbaresco DOCG, Piemonte

100% Nebbiolo

Tasting note

The 2018 Barbaresco Il Bricco shows ample depth and intensity with dark fruit, smoke, toasted spice and cured tobacco. This is a production of 6,393 numbered bottles. This vintage shows a mid-weight approach with rich fruit weight and polished tannins.(Monica Larner, Wine Advocate)

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Barolo 'Ornato' 2019 — Pio Cesare

Barolo 'Ornato' 2019

Barolo DOCG, Piemonte

100% Nebbiolo

Tasting note

Dark cherry aromas are nestled between wild herbs, flowers and savory spices that push and pull your attention with each taste. Sturdy and well-structured, this wine is built for tomorrow, when all parts will relax into one another to reveal just how great this wine is. Drink 2028–2045 (Jeff Porter, Wine Enthusiast).

 

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Barolo 'Ornato' 2016 — Pio Cesare

Barolo 'Ornato' 2016

Barolo DOCG, Piemonte

100% Nebbiolo

Tasting note

Very ripe sour cherries dominate the nose, which is perfumed and lifted, with a touch of vanilla beneath the soaring fruit. It’s taut and sleek, with high acidity but no greenness. The tannins are well integrated, so the texture is polished. It’s still tight and undoubtedly complex, with hints of tobacco and coffee. The balance is impeccable and this will go the distance. Although it may be accessible young, this will develop more nuances with further ageing. Long minty finish. (Stephen Brooks, 95 pts)

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Barolo 'Ornato' 2018 — Pio Cesare

Barolo 'Ornato' 2018

Barolo DOCG, Piemonte

100% Nebbiolo

Tasting note

Complex on the nose, offering a blend of ripe red berries, nutty minerals, orange-peel and spice. Some savory, almost meaty notes, too. Full, compact and intense, yet there’s a graceful feel to the palate, thanks to the really fine web of tannin. Super polish and promise here. Classy. Needs some time. Try from 2025. (James Suckling)

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Barolo 'Mosconi' 2019 — Pio Cesare

Barolo 'Mosconi' 2019

Barolo DOCG, Piemonte

100% Nebbiolo

Tasting note

Macerated raspberries combine with wild roses and crushed chalk in this evocative wine that captivates from the first sniff. Mixed cherries emerge on the palate, dusted with anise, licorice and savory herbs, wrapping up with superfine tannins that build to an extended finish that I wish would never end (Jeff Porter, Wine Enthusiast).

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Barolo 'Mosconi' 2018 — Pio Cesare

Barolo 'Mosconi' 2018

Barolo DOCG, Piemonte

100% Nebbiolo

Tasting note

Compared to the Ornato, the 2018 Barolo Mosconi (with fruit from Monforte d’Alba) shows a tighter and more compact quality with a direct, linear and powerful approach. The bouquet builds in vertical intensity, starting with tart fruit aromas and culminating with tar, rusted nail and camphor ash. That aromatic ascent comes at you quickly, and the wine ultimately settles on a very wide, all-encompassing performance. (Monica Larner, Wine Advocate)

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Pio Cesare Barolo and Barbaresco 2020 Vintage Report: Unveiling Exceptional Quality and Promising Aging Potential

Pio Cesare Barolo and Barbaresco 2020 Vintage Report: Unveiling Exceptional Quality and Promising Aging Potential

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Pio Cesare 2019 Vintage Report

Pio Cesare 2019 Vintage Report

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Pio Cesare 2018 Barolos and Barbarescos receive great ratings from Monica Larner

Pio Cesare 2018 Barolos and Barbarescos receive great ratings from Monica Larner

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Pio Cesare 2018 Barolos and Barbarescos receive great reviews from Jamie Goode

Pio Cesare 2018 Barolos and Barbarescos receive great reviews from Jamie Goode

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Pio Cesare 2017s receive great praise from Decanter

Pio Cesare 2017s receive great praise from Decanter

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Pio Cesare 2017s Receive Exceptional Scores!

Pio Cesare 2017s Receive Exceptional Scores!

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