Pio Cesare - Barolo Mosconi

Pio Cesare Barolo Mosconi 2018, Barolo DOCG

Pio Cesare Barolo Mosconi 2018 is the single-vineyard Barolo from the historic cellar in Alba, sourced from the oldest Nebbiolo vines in the Mosconi cru near Monforte d'Alba . This slope is considered one of the most sought-after plots in the entire Barolo zone, as power, depth, and longevity are practically a given here. The wine was first bottled separately in 2015, a personal project of the fourth generation, Pio Boffa, and has since developed into one of the house's flagship wines. Is this a Barolo for longevity? Yes, Mosconi 2018 is deliberately designed for longevity, with old vines, concentrated Nebbiolo, and extended aging in large oak barrels, so you can open it now or let it mature in the cellar for many years to come.

Vineyards and region

The grapes for Pio Cesare Barolo Mosconi 2018 come from the family's own vineyards in the Mosconi cru, in the municipality of Monforte d'Alba, Piedmont. These are a small selection of the oldest Nebbiolo vines on the steep hillside, where calcareous marl and marly soils provide concentration, structure, and refined aromatic depth. Mosconi is known in the Barolo world as a terroir that produces powerful yet elegant wines with pronounced length and ageing potential. Pio Cesare purchased a total of 10 hectares in Mosconi as the family's last major vineyard acquisition, further reinforcing the estate's philosophy of owning top vineyards in the most important villages of Barolo. This 2018 is therefore not only a Barolo cru but also a kind of signature of Pio Cesare's modern history.

Vinification and maturation

The Nebbiolo for Barolo Mosconi 2018 is harvested entirely by hand and rigorously selected, first in the vineyard and then in the cellar. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks, with a long maceration of approximately 30 days at a relatively high temperature, ensuring maximum color, structure, and complex aromas are extracted from the grape skins. After fermentation, the wine is aged for at least two years in large French and Slavonian oak barrels, the traditional "botti," which ensure gradual development without excessive wood influence. A small portion of the wine is also aged in barriques, which adds further layering and a subtle spiciness before the final blend is assembled. With an alcohol content of around 14.5% and extended bottle aging before release, Mosconi 2018 presents itself as a powerful Barolo with remarkable refinement and balance.

Grape composition

Nebbiolo – Mosconi (Monforte d'Alba)
Pio Cesare Barolo Mosconi 2018 is 100% Nebbiolo, from a selection of the oldest vines in the Mosconi cru. The grapes from this plot are known for their combination of ripe red fruit, floral notes, firm yet ripe tannins, and pronounced minerality, resulting in a Barolo with great complexity and a very long development curve in the bottle.

Tasting notes and serving suggestions

In the glass, Pio Cesare Barolo Mosconi 2018 displays a deep garnet color with a light brick rim, befitting a classic Nebbiolo from a grand Cru. The nose opens with red and dark fruit notes such as cherry and plum, surrounded by rose petals, violets, and subtle hints of orange peel, licorice, and fine herbs. Swirling reveals more earthy and balsamic nuances, including tar, warm earth, and a touch of camphor and graphite, beautifully reflecting the depth of the Mosconi soil. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and concentrated, with a core of ripe fruit supported by precise, fine, yet firm tannins and lively acidity that adds tension and length. The finish is very long, with lingering notes of red fruit, spice, and a salty, almost smoky minerality, making each sip an invitation to the next. Serve this Barolo ideally at around 16–18°C in a large Pinot/Nebbiolo glass and give it ample time in a carafe, especially in its youth. At the table, Mosconi 2018 is best paired with rich meat dishes such as ribeye or sirloin steak, beef or game stews, dishes featuring autumn truffle and mushrooms, or with aged hard cheeses, where its structure and complexity will fully reveal themselves.

Awards

• 2018 – 97 p (James Suckling)
• 2018 – 95 p (Robert Parker's Wine Advocate)
• 2018 – 94 p (Wine Spectator)
• 2018 – 95 p (Vinous)