2024 Pio Cesare L'Altro Chardonnay Langhe, Piedmont

From hillside vineyards in the Langhe, Pio Cesare L’Altro Chardonnay offers a fresh, contemporary take on Chardonnay from one of Italy’s most famous red wine regions. The Pio Cesare family, established in 1881, has long balanced tradition with a willingness to explore, and L’Altro, meaning the other, reflects their modern, unoaked expression of the variety. Grown on calcareous soils alongside Nebbiolo and Barbera, the wine captures both Piedmont freshness and a clean, fruit driven style.

A pale lemon hue with bright green reflections sits in the glass. Aromas open with crisp apple, pear and citrus zest layered with white flowers and a subtle mineral lift. There is an immediate sense of clarity and approachability.

The palate is light to medium bodied and vibrant, delivering orchard fruit and citrus flavours framed by lively acidity and a clean, linear structure. Notes of lemon peel, green apple and a faint saline edge carry through the mid palate, leading to a refreshing, easy going finish that feels both precise and effortlessly drinkable. Best enjoyed in its youth over the next three to five years while its brightness and purity are at their peak.

Crispy zucchini fritters with herbs, vitello tonnato sliced thin, or a plate of anchovies with lemon and olive oil passed around casually. A spin of Ludovico Einaudi or something light and modern from Nils Frahm, the wine bringing a sense of simplicity, clarity and understated Italian style to the table.