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 this wine come exclusively from a selection of the family’s own vineyards in Diano d’Alba, La Morra, Collaretto, Lirano in Serralunga d’Alba and Rocche di Massalupo in San Rocco Seno d’Elvio.
The grapes are hand-picked and gently pressed and fermented at 25 to 26°C. Vinification takes place in stainless steel tanks, with skin contact for 20 days. The wine is then aged in medium-toasted French oak for 24 months: 20% in barriques, 80% in 20-50 hectolitre casks or ‘botti’.
2017 was both an extraordinary and exceptional vintage in the Langhe area producing high quality Barolo and Barbaresco of great elegance, concentration, power, structure and ageing potential. High temperatures did push the harvest earlier than usual but even though the vegetative cycle started much earlier than usual, it lasted for almost 185-190 days. In other “hot” vintages, such as 2003, 2007 and 2007, it only lasted no more than 170 days. This extra time and the Pio’s extremely meticulous green harvest made 2017 a year to be remembered for healthy grapes with high concentration of anthocyanins and polyphenols, rounder tannins and intense fruit.
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.
Ideal with steak tartar, truffle, mushroom dishes, duck, guinea fowl, veal, braised beef, cheese.
Serve at 16-18°C.
Langhe DOC, Piemonte
100% Nebbiolo
Natural cork
14%
Yes
Yes
