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.
2016 was a traditional vintage. Winter was mild, followed by heavy snowfalls and very low temperatures, which slowed vegetative recovery, something which is always positive for the vine. Spring began with beneficial heavy rainfall and temperatures below the seasonal average. This delay to the vegetative cycle continued until the harvest despite uncharacteristically high temperatures towards the end of summer. The beautiful weather and heat remained until October, leading to complete but gradual maturation
The 2016s have excellent balance and structure, as well as good concentration of fruit aromas. They are intense ruby red in colour with a pleasant scent of ripe red fruits with sweet, supple tannins which bring fullness, elegance and a long finish.
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.
Vinous Media: 92 POINTS
June 2019, Antonio Galloni
“The 2016 Barbera d’Alba Fides is fabulous. Super-ripe dark cherry, pomegranate, rose petal and wild flowers are beautifully delineated in this plush, vibrant Barbera. Medium in body and impeccable in its balance, the Fides is a winner from Pio Cesare.”
Wine Spectator: 90 POINTS
December 15, 2018, Bruce Sanderson
“This red hits all the right notes, with the vibrant structure focusing the violet, black cherry, blackberry and tobacco flavors. This tightens up as it crosses the finish line. Drink now through 2023. 1,333 cases made.”
Wine & Spirits: 90 POINTS
December 2018, Stephanie Johnson
“Barbera vines planted in Serralunga d’Alba’s Colombaro vineyard supply the fruit for this deeply concentrated wine. Layers of black licorice and melted chocolate enrich the wine’s dark fruit flavors, and a note of salinity brightens the finish.”
Langhe DOC, Piemonte
100% Barbera
Natural cork
14.5%
1.1 g/l
6.10 g/l
Yes
Yes
