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.
The grapes are sourced exclusively from the single vineyard ‘Il Bricco’ estate, one of the prime sites within the Barberesco appellation situated in the village of Trieso.
The grapes are hand-harvested, then gently pressed and fermented on the skins for 15 days at 25° to 26°C in stainless steel. 70% of the wine is then aged in mid-toasted French oak (a third new) for 30 months. The remaining 30% is aged in 20 to 50 hectolitre casks.
“After the powerful 2013 vintage, 2014 is more balanced and elegant in style. Nevertheless, 2014 is considered a hot vintage. Unlike other regions in Italy that suffered from rain in the summer and into the autumn, the rain in Piedmont only lasted until mid-August and then we had very dry and hot conditions with high day-night temperature difference.
This has been fundamental for the maturation of the delicate Nebbiolo grapes.
We had a very strict and severe green harvest with an even flowering which resulted in excellent quality. The rainwater accumulated during the summer helped the vineyards with the most southern exposure and the green harvest resulted into very concentrated and fruit-forward wines with intense colour.
Both Barolo and Barbaresco are very elegant, with great energy and balance between acidity and structure with very rich perfumes. The 2014 vintage is a perfect example of how fundamental the end of the season is in determining the final quality of the grapes and wines.”, Pio Boffa
“Deep garnet; aromas of mulberry, black plum and thyme. Medium-full with a rich, deeply concentrated mid-palate. Rich young tannins that are beautifully integrated, very good acidity, excellent persistence and nicely managed wood notes. There are notes of balsamic in the finish. Outstanding varietal character, this has exceptional harmony and while approachable now, is structured for peak enjoyment in 10-12 years. Outstanding”, Tom Hyland, Forbes
Serve with red meat dishes, game or seasonal truffle, mature cheeses.
Serve at 16-18°C.
JamesSuckling.com: 94 POINTS
September 25, 2018, James Suckling
“Extremely perfumed aromas with dried flowers, light stems, fresh herbs and dried strawberries. Medium to full body, firm and silky tannins and a linear and bright finish. So delicious now.”
Wine Spectator: 93 POINTS
May 23, 2018, Bruce Sanderson
A beefy version, with rich, dense tannins, evoking flavors of cherry, wild herbs, menthol and tobacco. A hefty dose of oak adds sweet spice details and tannins. Needs time to absorb the oak. Best from 2022 through 2038.
Barbaresco DOCG, Piemonte
100% Nebbiolo
Natural Cork
Yes
Yes
