Pio Cesare Fides Barbera d'Alba 2016

Pio Cesare Fides Barbera d'Alba 2016 is a benchmark, highly concentrated, and single-vineyard Italian red wine that demonstrates the majestic, age-worthy heights the Barbera grape can achieve. Sourced from old vines planted within the prestigious Colombaro and Mosconi plots in the Barolo region of Serralunga d'Alba and Monforte d'Alba, "Fides" (meaning trust or faith) reflects the family’s steadfast belief in this variety. It pours a deep ruby-purple color, unfurling a dark, luscious bouquet of summer-ripe cherries, juicy plums, and blackcurrants, seamlessly layered with complex notes of black licorice, violet petals, melted chocolate, and wild mint over a stony, slate-like mineral baseline. On the palate, this full-bodied masterpiece offers an explosive, thick density and a plush texture that is masterfully defined by a vibrant, focused red-berry acidity. Matured for 12 months in a combination of large French oak casks and barriques, its velvety dark-fruit core is beautifully integrated with soft, fine-grained tannins, leading to a long, precise, and structural finish laced with savory tobacco and sweet spices.

Food Pairing: This robust and deeply flavored red pairs magnificently with slow-cooked oxtail stew, rosemary-braised lamb shanks, duck ragù over fresh pasta, pan-roasted pork cheeks, or wild mushroom risotto.