2022 Pio Cesare Langhe Nebbiolo DOC, Piedmont

Pio Cesare Langhe Nebbiolo DOC offers a compelling glimpse into the world of Barolo and Barbaresco, crafted with the pedigree of a historic estate but made for earlier drinking. Sourced from younger vines and select parcels in family-owned vineyards in Serralunga d'Alba and Treiso, this wine shows all the finesse and aromatic clarity of Nebbiolo without requiring long cellaring to enjoy.

Pio Cesare is one of Piedmont’s most respected names, producing wine in Alba since 1881. The estate has remained family-owned for five generations and is currently overseen by Federica Boffa, who continues the tradition of elegance, structure and precision. The Langhe Nebbiolo is made using the same methods as their Barolo and Barbaresco: long maceration, native yeast fermentation, and ageing in a mix of large French oak casks and smaller barrels.

In the glass, it opens with aromas of dried roses, red cherry, anise and crushed herbs. The palate is medium-bodied and finely woven, with flavours of cranberry, sour cherry, orange peel and savoury spice. Fine, chalky tannins give shape without overwhelming, and there's a whisper of tobacco and truffle on the long finish.

It’s a versatile red that can be enjoyed with wild mushroom risotto, osso buco, aged Pecorino or grilled duck breast with cherry glaze. While it drinks beautifully young, it can easily hold for 5 to 7 years, developing greater savoury depth.