Barbaresco and Il Bricco by Pio Cesare
The world of Italian wine is filled with iconic names, and few stand taller than Pio Cesare, one of the most historic and revered producers in the Barbaresco and Barolo regions. Among their top expressions is Barbaresco Il Bricco, a wine that showcases the elegance, structure, and complexity that defines this storied cru.
On October 16, 2024, Lucciola had the privilege of hosting a special wine dinner, where Cesare Benvenuto, the fifth generation of the Pio Cesare family, guided us through an unforgettable journey of these legendary wines.
The Legacy of Barbaresco Il Bricco
The Il Bricco vineyard holds a special place in the hearts of Nebbiolo enthusiasts.
Nestled in the hills of the Barbaresco region, this vineyard benefits from an elevated position and prime exposure. It yields grapes that possess both power and finesse. With a production of just around 6,000 bottles per year, Barbaresco Il Bricco stands as one of the crown jewels of Pio Cesare's portfolio.
Pio Cesare’s Barbaresco Il Bricco has earned a reputation for producing some of the region's most age-worthy wines. In exceptional vintages like 2016, 2010, 2004, 1999, and 1996, this wine showcases its full potential—balanced, complex, and built for the long haul. The 2016 vintage, in particular, is hailed for its near-perfect conditions, resulting in a structured and refined wine. Similarly, the 2010 vintage offers masculine power with great aging potential, while 2015 is praised for its smooth elegance.
I asked Cesare for his perspective, and he explained that, for Pio Cesare, every vintage is considered great due to the consistently high standards they maintain in both grape growing and winemaking. He emphasized that their winemaker, who has been with the estate for over 40 years, ensures continuity in style while embracing technological advancements. Cesare and his cousin Federica personally oversee the final decisions on each wine's release, ensuring that every bottle reflects their family’s legacy of quality and tradition.
A Memorable Wine Club Dinner at Lucciola
Our wine club dinner at Lucciola on October 16, 2024, brought together these incredible vintages in a celebration of Pio Cesare's rich legacy. Cesare Benvenuto, a direct descendant of the family estate’s founder, guided our guests through a carefully curated lineup of Barbaresco and Barolo wines. Paired with a menu designed by Chef Michele Casadei Massari, each dish was crafted to elevate the distinct characteristics of the wines.
We began the evening with comparing Barbaresco 2019 and Barolo 2019, showcasing how the same vintage can express itself differently in these two prestigious appellations. The Barbaresco was elegant and perfumed, with delicate tannins, while the Barolo displayed more structure and intensity, providing guests with a fascinating side-by-side tasting experience.
The next course featured Barbaresco Il Bricco 2015 and 2010, two vintages that exemplify the diversity of this iconic cru. The 2015 Il Bricco was elegant and smooth, with a silkiness that instantly made it approachable. By contrast, the 2010 vintage showed its more masculine side, with a robust structure, depth, and aging potential that will reward those with patience.
To close the evening, we tasted Barolo 2020, a great vintage that offered vibrant fruit and balanced tannins. Then, we tasted the majestic Barolo 2010, a wine that encapsulated the power and grace of Nebbiolo at its finest, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.
The dinner was not just a showcase of extraordinary wines but a celebration of the legacy and craftsmanship of Pio Cesare. The unique comparison of Barbaresco and Barolo from the same vintage allowed our guests to delve deep into the nuances of each region, while the Il Bricco vertical highlighted the distinct character of this prized vineyard across two exceptional years.
As we raised our glasses in Lucciola’s intimate setting, we were reminded of the timelessness of great wine and the artistry required to produce it. With Cesare Benvenuto sharing his family's stories and insights, the evening was both educational and deeply personal—an unforgettable journey through the heart of Piedmont.
We look forward to hosting many more evenings like this, where tradition and innovation meet at the table, surrounded by great food, even greater wines, and the best company.
