Pio Cesare’s 1990 Barolo is one of the protagonists of the Barolo Boom years that would soon follow this legendary vintage. The historic estate celebrated its 100th anniversary in 1981. With fruit sourced from family-owned vineyards in Serralunga d’Alba, La Morra and Grinzane Cavour and additional fruit from Castiglione Falletto and Barolo, this is a classic interpretation of one of Italy’s greatest wines. The wine is deep into its Golden Years with savory tones of smoked bacon, pencil shavings and saddle leather. It feels flatter and less vibrant that I would have hoped. This bottle was slightly past its prime. Drink: 2014-2018.

Aromatic and generous, a broad-textured red that adds a minty-eucalyptus edge to the black cherry and berry flavors. Tannins seem well integrated. Should be best from 1998 or 1999.??–null??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barolo Select to Add