Piemonte (Piedmont)

Piemonte (Piedmont) is a renowned wine region in northwest Italy, located at the foothills of the Alps.

The name translates to "foot of the mountains," and this geographical feature plays a significant role in shaping the climate and topography of the region.

Piemonte has been an important wine province since Roman times. The area is influenced both culturally and climatically by the Alps in the north, and the Ligurian coast in the south.

Piemonte is celebrated for its high-quality wines, including some of Italy's most prestigious reds.

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Climate

Piemonte is characterized by its diverse landscapes, including the mountainous areas of the Alps.

The region has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. The Alps to the north protect the vineyards from northern winds, while the surrounding hills create a range of different microclimates. Some of them pefect for winemaking.

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Grapes

Nebbiolo (the power of the Barolo and Barbaresco) is the most famous grape of Piemonte, followed by the red grapes Barbera and Dolcetto.

For whites, Cortese and Arneis are the most popular grapes.

For dessert, the off-dry, sparkling Moscato d'Asti is the queen.

Nebbiolo

Nebbiolo is the star grape, known for its high acidity, bold tannins, and complex flavors.

The wines Barolo and Barbaresco are made exclusively from Nebbiolo grapes.

Barolo ("The King of Wines") is a powerful, age-worthy wine with notes of cherry, tar, and roses. Barbaresco, a slightly lighter and more approachable wine, also showcases Nebbiolo's elegance.

Barbera and Dolcetto

Barbera and Dolcetto are other important red grape varieties in Piemonte.

Barbera is known for its high acidity and vibrant fruit flavors, making it an approachable wine for everyday consumption.

Dolcetto produces softer and fruitier wines that can be enjoyed young.

Wite Wines

While Piemonte is best known for its reds, it also produces noteworthy white wines. Gavi, made from the Cortese grape, is a popular white wine from the region, known for its crisp acidity and citrus notes.

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Wine Regions

The most important wine regions are:

• Asti (Barbera d'Asti)
• Langhe (Nebbiolo, Barolo, Barbaresco, Barbera di Alba, Dolcetto, Roero)
• Monferrato (Barbera del Monferrat, Nizza, Cortese di Gavi)
• North (Gattinara, Ghemme)

DOCG Regions

Piemonte has several sub regions, and many wines hold Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (DOCG) status, the highest level of Italian wine classification.

In addition to Barolo and Barbaresco, other notable DOCGs include Barbera d'Asti, Barbera del Monferrato, Gavi, and Asti Spumante.

• Alta Langa (Metodo Classico)
• Asti (100% Moscato)
• Barbaresco (100 %Nebbiolo)
• Barbera d'Asti (Min. 90% Barbera)
• Barbera del Monferrato Superiore (Min. 14 months storage)
• Barolo (100% Nebbiolo)
• Brachetto d'Acqui (100% Brachetto)
• Gavi (100% Cortese)
• Dogliani Superiore (100% Dolcetto)
• Ovada Superiore (100% Dolcetto)
• Diano d'Alba (100% Dolcetto)
• Erbaluce di Caluso (aka Caluso)
• Gattinara (Min 90% Nebbiolo)
• Ghemme (Min 85% Nebbiolo)
• Nizza (100% Barbera)
• Roero (100% Arneis)
• Ruchè di Castagnole Monferrato (90% Ruchè)
• Terre Alfieri (Arneis and Nebbiolo)

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Food Pairing

Piemonte's wines are a perfect complement to the region's rich and hearty cuisine.

The reds pair exceptionally well with the local specialties, including truffles, risottos, and game meats.

Barbera, with its vibrant acidity, is often considered a versatile choice for pairing with a variety of dishes.

Piemonte is famous for its truffles, particularly the white truffle of Alba, which adds a luxurious and earthy element to many local dishes. Additionally, the region is known for its hazelnuts, which find their way into various desserts and local products.

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