Pio Cesare Barolo 2019
- js94
- we94
- jd92
- ws92
Category | Red Wine |
Varietal | |
Brand | Pio Cesare |
Origin | Italy, Piedmont, Barolo |
Alcohol/vol | 14.5% |
Established in 1881, the esteemed Piedmontese producer of Barolo and Barbaresco is run by fifth-generation members of the family— Federica and Cesare, the late Pio Boffa’s daughter and nephew, respectively. The family’s 170-acre collection of prized parcels of varying exposures, combined with restrained yields and a focus on quality over quantity (production is intentionally limited to roughly 40,000 cases each year) allow Pio Cesare to produce traditional expressions of the Langhe’s diverse terroirs. A classic style Barolo. Excellent structure, harmony, and elegance. Soft tannins and balanced fruit. Approachable, but with a very long aging potential. Barolo is a great wine, which should not be described as a “basic” or “regular” Barolo, simply because it does not have any additional indication on the label.
Wine Advocate 95 Pts "Pio Cesare does a great job with its classic 2019 Barolo (in production since 1881). The bottom of the front label reads "Barolo Pio" in memory of the legendary Pio Boffa. He was a wine entrepreneur who gained the immediate respect and love of all those who knew him. He passed away tragically during the COVID-19 pandemic just as the vaccines were being rolled out. This is a large production of about 70,000 bottles with fruit sourced from across seven vineyards in five villages. Despite those ambitious numbers, the wine remains strictly focused on bright Nebbiolo fruit with red cassis and aniseed. The finish is smooth with tannins that elegantly dissolve over the palate."
James Suckling
- js94
Lovely perfumes of flowers, fresh strawberries, and raspberries follow through to a medium- to full-bodied palate with fine tannins that run the length of the wine. Citrus and spice undertones. Finishes long and intense. Tannic finish.
Wine Enthusiast
- we94
The historic house of Pio Cesare is making some of its best wines today. This classic highlights the purity of Nebbiolo with lifted tart red fruit notes combined with sweet and savory spices followed by subtle notes of flowers and earth. Sour cherry flavors define the palate with gentle tannins, savory herbs and a vibrant finish. Drink now-2035.
Jeb Dunnuck
- jd92
A touch more reserved at the moment, the 2019 Barolo reveals notes of pure red fruit, cherry, grenadine, dusty earth, and menthol. It is gripping with structure and rich with tea leaves, cherries, and turned soil. Drink 2024-2035.
Wine Spectator
- ws92
A savory version, displaying macerated cherry and currant fruit aligned with eucalyptus, rosemary and earth flavors. Dense and lively, ending with a solid grip of tannins. Fresh and on the austere side. Best from 2026 through 2042. 5,800 cases made, 3,500 cases imported.