2011 Pio Cesare - Barbera d'Alba
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Tasting notes
Good full, deep red. Superripe plum, dark chocolate, spicecake and black olive on the rather modern nose. Generous, pliant and sweet, with rich dark fruit and chocolate flavors complicated by saline minerality and a hint of olive tapenade. Harmonious acidity and fine-grained tannins lengthen this smooth wine's finish. Nuanced and interesting barbera.
Critic scores
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2011 Barbera d'Alba is a delicious, supple wine to drink now and over the next few years. Dark raspberries, flowers and sweet spices inform a Barbera long on polish, silkiness and harmony. The 2011 is rich and creamy, but also beautifully balanced and finessed, especially on the finish.
The 2011 Barbera d’Alba delivers more aromatic intensity in the form of Indian spice, leather and mild tobacco. It does not limit itself to those savory aromas. In fact, it also delivers a healthy dose of fresh fruit, mostly blackberry and plum, to flesh out and enrich the mouthfeel. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2018. Pio Cesare is what I call a “lighthouse” winery. Steadfast and standing tall among the rest, it floods the landscape with inspiration and light for a slew of smaller, boutique wineries looking to find their way. Among the most historic brands in Alba, Pio Cesare has worked hard to promote Barolo and the territory of the Langhe across the globe. Their tireless efforts have been instrumental in creating a unified Barolo identity. Importer: Maisons Marques & Domaines; Oakland, CA; tel. (510) 286-2000