The Pio Cesare 2017 Langhe Chardonnay Piodilei opens to a few whiffs of smoke and flint before you get to the orchard and passion fruits that are at the core of this pretty white wine. The wine is oak fermented, and you get hints of toasted almond, honey and ripe melon along the way. Despite the hot vintage, the style of this wine embraces freshness, lightness and elegance. A pair with sea urchin is just what I was thinking. Some 10,000 bottles are on the market now.

Deft use of oak adds light baking spice accents to the core of peach and apple fruit in this harmonious white. Mellow and appealing now, with elements of smoke and mineral adding detail. Drink now. 100 cases imported.??–BS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Langhe Select to Add