Pio Cesare 2019 Barolo (75cl, 14.5%)

A Barolo DOCG from Piedmont, made from 100% Nebbiolo sourced across five communes and bottled at 14.5% ABV. Pio Cesare has produced wine in Alba since 1881. The 2019 follows a traditional multi-vineyard approach, blending Nebbiolo from parcels in Serralunga d'Alba, Grinzane Cavour, La Morra, Novello and Monforte d'Alba. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel with 25 to 30 days of skin contact and maceration, followed by about 30 months of ageing, mainly in large French oak botti with a small portion in barriques. The nose opens with intense Asian spices and potpourri, layered with kumquat zest and freshly tilled earth, with pressed roses and anise emerging. The palate shows wild strawberry, raspberry liqueur, guava fruit and tangerine peel, with firm structured tannins framing cherry, grenadine and wet stone. The finish is long and gripping, with dusty earth, menthol and lingering cherry fruit.