Barolo DOCG Pio 2022 Pio Cesare

What kind of wine is it

The Barolo Pio by Pio Cesare is a dry red wine, made exclusively from Nebbiolo grapes. It’s not an entry-level Barolo: it is assembled from different parcels across the area to showcase the grape’s many nuances in a complete and balanced way. The result is a red with structured tannins yet elegant, with long persistence and strong aging potential.

Where it comes from

The grapes come from the family’s estate vineyards, spread across nine subzones of the Barolo area. In Serralunga are Ornato, Briccolina, Serra and Lirano; in Monforte, Mosconi; in Novello, Ravera; in La Morra, Roncaglie; and in Grinzane Cavour, Gustava and Garretti. Different positions and exposures give Nebbiolo distinct nuances, which Pio Cesare brings together in the final wine, following its house style since 1881.

How it is made

After a careful selection of the grapes, fermentation and a long maceration on the skins take place in stainless-steel tanks. The parcels are then assembled and the wine ages for about twenty-four months in large oak casks of French and Eastern European oak. A small portion also spends short periods in French barriques. This is followed by a long rest in bottle, which increases its approachability even in youth.

Tasting notes

On the nose and palate, ripe fruit and spicy notes emerge. In the mouth, the tannins—structured and complex—meet elegance and finesse and deliver a sip of good complexity. The finish is long and persistent.

Food pairings

It’s a substantial red for the table, pairing well with red meats braised and roasted, with game and with aged cheeses. In Piedmontese cuisine it marries with tajarin al ragù and with braised beef. Its structured sip also stands up to rich dishes, such as mushroom or truffle risottos.

When to serve it

It’s the wine for special lunches and dinners, when you want a characterful red to share at the table. Best enjoyed in a large-bowled glass, opening the bottle a little in advance to let the aromas express themselves. While enjoyable even in its youth, it has excellent aging potential and is also suited to the cellar.