I have been ignoring Italy for the past few months (not sure why) and I have not participated in WBW (I know why), but for the fifty-fourth WBW installment my wine buddy David McDuff is hosting and Piedmont is calling - how could I resist (especially when bonus points are served)?I chose two wines from Pio Cesare, one of Piedmont's most renowned wine houses, for two reasons - consistent success, and it has been two years since I have tasted "A Peeedmont Chardonnayyy".
The 2001 Pio Cesare Barbera d'Alba "Fides" first showed its rubbery/inky/tarry side on the nose, later delivering lovely green pepper, cherry fruit, almonds and earthy, single malt scotch-like notes. Lovely texture - silky tannins and fresh acidity with a nice, spicy almond finish. Scored identically to last year, with similar tarry notes and a spicy mouthfeel, one of the nicest barberas I've ever had.
cork. 14% alcohol
Score: 17.5/20
Price: C$33 (SAQ)
Yes, Piedmont chardonnay just sounds wrong, but I just focus on the liquid in the glass. The 2007 Pio Cesare l'Altro Piedmont Chardonnay had a promising nose - green grass at first, some soap, apple, floral and peach notes as well. Stoney and crisp on the palate, yet soft and oily as it warmed up. No faults here - a delicious, balanced chardonnay, just not "moving" me tonight...
cork. 13.5% alcohol
Score: 16/20
Price: C$23.25 (SAQ)
White and red from Piedmont, same winemaker, I can't wait to use those "McDuff Bonus Points". Cheers, David!
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5 comments:
Well done, Joe. I may be jumping the gun but, based on a quick survey, I think you're the only participant to score bonus points on this particular challenge. (I'm not giving myself points, especially not based on a 3-year-old winery visit....) We'll find out for sure come summary time.
Very cool - thought that was a pretty easy bonus point hurdle. Just added the picture, thanks for hosting!
Hi Paulo, I have added you to my blogroll - elogios?!
Over achiever!
Hi Ed - words I never hear, thank you!
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