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 for the ‘Fides’ come from the family-owned ‘Colombaro’ vineyard near the famous Ornato Estate in Serralunga d’Alba. ‘Fides’ is the Latin for ‘trust’ or ‘faith. A true act of faith and trust was made by the family when, they planted Barbera, instead of Nebbiolo from which a great Barolo could have been produced instead.
The grapes are hand-picked. The grapes are gently pressed and fermented at 25° to 26°C. Vinification takes place in stainless steel tanks, with skin contact for 10 days. The wine is then aged in medium-toasted French oak for 20 months: 80% in barriques, 20% in 20 hectolitre casks.
Winter was long and cold with the cool conditions continuing into March and April which delayed the start of the growing season. The summer months were typically warm and sunny, resulting in healthy grapes with good aromatic compounds.
Deep ruby with purple hues, this wine has lifted perfumes of black and blue berries, with some notes of leather and sweet spice such as clove. Full of ripe fruit flavours, this wine concentrated and balanced with impressive length and a silky finish.
Serve with grilled pork, lamb shanks, mushroom risotto, steak.
Serve at 16-18°C.
Langhe DOC, Piemonte
100% Barbera
Natural cork
14.5%
1.1 g/l
6.10 g/l
