About this wine
Vineyard and terroir
The Chardonnay comes from two family-owned vineyards: Cascina Il Bricco in Treiso, within the Barbaresco area, and Colombaro in Serralunga d’Alba, within the Barolo area. Higher-elevation exposures and cooler microclimates are central to the wine’s expression of Langhe complexity, structure, restraint and longevity. Piodilei was among the earliest Piedmontese and Italian Chardonnays to be vinified in barriques.
Grapes
100% Chardonnay.
Vinification
Alcoholic fermentation begins in stainless-steel tanks and finishes in French oak barriques. New oak is used only to a very limited extent, and the barrels receive delicate toasting. The technical sheet describes an alternative protocol of gentle pressing at low temperature followed by fermentation in French oak barrels.
Ageing
The current presentation describes nearly 10 months in French oak barriques followed by a long period of bottle ageing before release. The technical sheet instead specifies eight months on the lees in French oak barrels and at least six months in bottle.
Tasting profile
Spicy and citrus aromas are joined by delicate vanilla notes. The palate combines minerality, complexity and intensity with a long finish. The technical sheet additionally characterizes the wine as creamy, soft and full of ripe, sweet fruit while retaining freshness and an elegant oak accent.
Label / history
First officially presented with the 1985 vintage, Piodilei was conceived to express in white wine the body, complexity, structure and ageing potential associated with the family’s Langhe reds. Its name means “Pio for her” and pays tribute to the women of the Pio family, particularly their strength and determination. It has been made in small quantities every year since 1985.