Piodilei Langhe Chardonnay 2020 – Pio Cesare.
Pio Cesare is a household name in Piedmont. This house is one of the classics, located in Alba, the “wine capital” of the Langhe. They are known for producing excellent red wines but the Langhe region, and this winery are also capable of producing stellar white wines. In this review we are discussing one of these wines. A Chardonnay named “Piodilei” labelled as Langhe DOC wine.
About the Winery
Pio Cesare is a family owned winery and founded in 1881 by Cesare Pio. The winery started and built its status mostly by buying grapes from local producers but over time they expanded their own portfolio of vineyards, mainly in iconic appellations such as Barolo and Barbaresco. By now they own about 70 hectares of vineyards, out of which they produce wines on different quality and price levels.
In the cellar they practice a more hands-off approach these days, all of the wines receive an individual treatment, fitting with the desired style and profile. For oak vinification in its red wines Pio Cesare works with Slavonian oak, as is the trademark of the region.
Pio Cesare produce a large number of different wines including Barolo, Barbaresco, Barbera d’Alba and Langhe wines. What they have in common is a profile that shows as balanced, refined and complex. True ambassadors of their region.
About the Wine
This iconic Chardonnay is produced since 1985. Its origin lies in the family-owned vineyards “Il Bricco” in Treiso (Barbaresco area) and the “Mosconi” vineyard in Monforte d’Alba. The wine is fermented in stainless steel tanks and ages in French oak barriques (of which one third new oak), for 8 months with extensive lees contact.
In the glass a pale golden colour, accompanied by a complex nose. Looks can be deceiving because as soon as the wine opens up in the glass you experience a wide array on aromas such as brioche, pineapple, oak, caramel, vanilla and hazelnut. Although this might sound overwhelming it works together perfectly. A classical Chardonnay with a lot to offer.
On the palette the diversity continues, delivering a rich and creamy style, wrapped up with a mineral lining. The wine has enough energy and acidity to stay refreshed, delivering a prolonged aftertaste.
The 2020 vintage of this Pio Cesare icon has received excellent scores from James Suckling (97 points) as well as Robert Parker (93 points).
Conclusion:
We are following Parker here and award this Chardonnay with a strong 93-point DWA score. Well done Pio Cesare, you have shown us how good a Piedmont Chardonnay can be! A powerful white with beautiful depth and length. Complexity and a wide array of aromas characterize this wine with a rich body.
This wine is imported in the Netherlands by Vinites, and available through associated retailers and restaurants.
Price: €50,95
Taste date: March 2023
Score: 93/100 DWA Score
Website: Pio Cesare