Pio Cesare Barbera d’Alba DOC 2022

Winery Background and History

Bottega Pio Cesare, founded in 1881 in Alba, Piedmont, is a prestigious, family-run estate known for blending traditional Piedmontese winemaking with refined French techniques. While best known for its Barolo and Barbaresco wines, the estate also crafts approachable, young expressions such as its Barbera d’Alba. This wine captures the region’s bright fruit and balanced acidity while reflecting Pio Cesare’s commitment to both quality and regional typicity.

Producer and Wine Maker

This wine is produced by the Pio Cesare winemaking team—led by the Boffa family alongside oenologist Paolo Fenocchio—who emphasize grape selection, minimal intervention, and clean vinification. Their methodology ensures the preservation of Barbera’s natural charm, with vibrant fruit notes and a supple structure that stays true to the grape’s spirit.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The grapes for this expression of Barbera d’Alba are sourced from the Barolo area within the Langhe, growing in calcareous clay soils with moderate elevation. This terrain, combined with diurnal temperature shifts of warm days and cool nights, encourages ripeness balanced by acidity and bright aromatics—ideal for crafting expressive and elegant Barbera.

Vinification & Aging Methods

Fermentation is conducted in stainless steel to maintain fruit clarity and freshness. The wine may then be briefly aged in neutral containers to provide subtle texture, but retains a clear focus on Barbera’s vivid and lively character without being over-oaked.

Tasting Notes

This Barbera d’Alba reveals crushed raspberries, blueberries, and crushed stone aromas with a youthful ruby hue. On the palate, it is medium-bodied with lively acidity, fine tannins, and a bright, refreshing finish. Notes of spice and subtle earthiness add complexity to its vibrant fruit profile  .

Food & Wine Pairing

With its balanced fruit, lively acidity, and gentle structure, this wine pairs effortlessly with tomato-based pasta, pizza, grilled sausages, charcuterie, and aged cheeses. It also complements dishes like mushroom ragù and roasted vegetables—simple yet flavorful fare.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve at approximately 16 °C in a medium-sized red wine glass. Decanting is unnecessary; serve well-chilled to enjoy its vibrant fruit profile and bright finish.

Storage and Aging Potential

This Barbera is crafted for early to mid-term consumption. It is best enjoyed within 2–4 years of release, as its fresh and fruit-forward character is ideal when youthful. Extended aging may soften vibrancy without adding complexity.

Grape Varietals & percentage used

100 % Barbera

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

14.5 % 

Scores

James Suckling: 91 points