Pio Cesare Barolo Ornato 2020

Drink it now or cellar for up to 30 years. It is recommended to decant it for an hour. Located in Alba, the capital of the Langhe hills in Piedmont, the Pio Cesare winery was founded in 1881 and remains a family-owned and operated business to this day. Its centuries-long history and the extraordinary wines it produces make it one of the most prestigious and sought-after wineries in the area. The company's vineyards span approximately 70 hectares, encompassing highly prized plots and crus of Barolo and Barbaresco. The Nebbiolo grapes come from a plot located in the Ornasco Barolo cru. After traditional vinification in steel at controlled temperatures and a long maturation on the skins, the finished wine rests in a mix of large and small barrels for 30 months. First produced in 1985 to showcase the exceptional qualities of this terroir, it has become one of the winery's most iconic wines. On the nose, Barolo Ornasco reveals a varied and complex aromatic profile with initial notes of cherry and currant, followed by hints of violet, sweet spice, cocoa, and finally balsamic touches. On the palate, it is concentrated, powerful, and elegant. It has firm tannins and a lively acidity. It shows a robust structure and a long finish with notes of menthol and wood. Try it with braised game and aged cheese.