Chiara Boschis E. Pira Barolo Via Nuova 2019

Chiara Boschis E. Pira Barolo Via Nuova 2018

The Boschis family purchased E. Pira & Figli in 1981, propelling the young Chiara into a role significantly different to that intended by her economics degree. The family was, until recently, proprietors of Barolo's historic Giacomo Borgogno estate (Chiara originally learnt her wine-making skills from her brothers) but she brought her considerable determination, charm, patience and confidence to bear on raising the quality and image of Pira to that which it enjoys today. Her philosophy is to craft wines that marry the extraordinary power of Barolo with approachability, promoting great aromatics, lush textures and elegance. This has been achieved through strict vineyard management, careful selection and impeccable vinification techniques. Beginning as one of only two female oenologists working in Barolo, Chiara is nowadays regarded as every bit the equal of her peers.

The 2019 Barolo Via Nova is another gorgeous wine. Soaring and broad in its aromatic intensity, the 2019 has it all. The blend of seven sites works so well. Readers will find a seamless, wonderfully complete Barolo. Dried flowers, herbs, mint, rose petal, kirsch and orange zest lend notable complexity throughout. The 2019 is deep and also quite rich, but not at all heavy. There is a touch of oak sweetness, but it just adds to the wine's exotic beauty. 97 points. - Antonio Galloni