Pio Cesare Barbera D'Alba Doc 2022 1.5L

Winery Background and History

Bottega Pio Cesare, established in 1881 in Alba, Piedmont, is a legendary, family-run estate known for its mastery of Nebbiolo. Over time, the winery expanded its portfolio to include everyday gems like the Barbera d’Alba, offering accessible, vibrant wines that reflect Piedmont’s heritage and Pio Cesare’s commitment to quality and regional authenticity.

Producer and Wine Maker

This wine is produced by the Pio Cesare winemaking team, now led by Federica and Cesare Boffa with oenologist Paolo Fenocchio. The collective emphasizes minimal intervention, precise vineyard selection, and clean vinification. Their approach ensures expressive, fruit-driven wines with balanced structure—true to regional character and consistent with the estate’s storied reputation.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The grapes are sourced from Pio Cesare’s vineyards in Barolo and Barbaresco zones and surrounding Langhe areas. Soils are clay-calcareous with sufficient drainage, and the climate features warm days and cool nights, fostering ripe fruit, vibrant acidity, and floral aromatics—ideal for expressive Barbera.

Vinification & Aging Methods

Fermented in stainless steel to preserve freshness, then aged in large oak casks. The result is a wine that highlights Barbera’s bright fruit and acid vibrancy, with subtle textural depth from neutral oak influence.

Tasting Notes

This medium-bodied Barbera presents crushed raspberries, blueberries, spice, and a mineral-tinged core. On the palate, lively acidity is balanced by fine, creamy tannins and a bright, persistent finish. Elegant with structure and purity of fruit.

Food & Wine Pairing

A versatile pairing companion, it complements pasta with tomato sauce, pizza, grilled meats, pork, and charcuterie. Its vivid fruit and acidity make it a perfect match for everyday Italian fare and richer, savory dishes.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve at approximately 16 °C in a medium-sized red wine glass. No decanting is needed; simply pour and enjoy—its bright character doesn’t require aeration.

Storage and Aging Potential

Best enjoyed within 2–4 years of release to enjoy its freshness and fruit expression. Moderate cellaring is possible, but extended aging is unlikely to enhance its appeal given its vibrant and straightforward style.

Grape Varietals & percentage used

100 % Barbera

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

14.5 % 

Scores

Wine Enthusiast: 92 points 

James Suckling: 91 points