Piedmont Wine Regions

Piedmont Wine Regions: Iconic Wines, Terroirs, and Estates

Piedmont Wine Regions

Piedmont is one of Italy’s most esteemed wine regions, producing world-class wines from its diverse sub-regions. Known for the

Vineyards of Piedmont: Regions and Their Wine Particularities

Piedmont Langhe Wine Region

Langhe Vineyards - Piedmont

1. Langhe

Presentation of the Sub-Region’s Wines: The Langhe sub-region is synonymous with high-quality, age-worthy wines, including "Barolo" and "Barbaresco", which are made from the "Nebbiolo" grape. It is also known for other varieties such as "Barbera" and "Dolcetto".

Terroir, Climate, and Geography: Langhe features rolling hills with altitudes ranging from 200 to 600 meters. The soils are a mix of clay, limestone, and marl, which contribute to the complexity and structure of the wines. The climate is continental with significant diurnal temperature shifts, enhancing the acidity and aromatic profile of the grapes. The long growing season allows "Nebbiolo" to develop its full range of flavors.

Main Wines:

Barolo: Made from 100% Nebbiolo, featuring notes of cherry, rose, tar, and truffle, with firm tannins and long aging potential.
Barbaresco: Also made from "Nebbiolo", with flavors of red fruit, floral notes, and a more elegant, silky texture compared to Barolo.
Langhe Nebbiolo: A more approachable expression of "Nebbiolo", with red fruit and light tannins.

Notable Estates and Tasting Notes:

Gaja: Known for prestigious "Barbaresco" with red fruit, floral aromas, and refined tannins.
Marchesi di Barolo: Renowned for classic "Barolo" with flavors of cherry, tar, and firm structure.
Paolo Scavino: Produces bold "Barolo" with dark fruit, spice, and velvety tannins.
Pio Cesare: Known for traditional "Barolo" and "Barbaresco" with balanced acidity and earthiness.
Elio Altare: Offers modern-style "Barolo" with concentrated fruit and silky texture.
Vietti: Specializes in expressive "Barolo" with red fruit and floral notes.
Aldo Conterno: Produces powerful "Barolo" with deep flavors of plum, licorice, and spice.
Bruno Giacosa: Known for elegant, complex "Barolo" and "Barbaresco" with long aging potential.

2. Monferrato

Presentation of the Sub-Region’s Wines: Monferrato is celebrated for its diverse wine production, including "Barbera", "Grignolino", and "Dolcetto". It is also a key region for "Moscato d'Asti" and sparkling wines.

Terroir, Climate, and Geography: Monferrato's vineyards are spread across rolling hills with altitudes typically between 150 to 400 meters. The soils here are a mix of clay, limestone, and sand, giving rise to wines with varying profiles. The region's continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters, helps grapes achieve optimal ripeness while retaining acidity. The combination of sunny days and cool nights results in aromatic wines with vibrant fruit flavors.

Main Wines:

Barbera d'Asti: Made from "Barbera", featuring bright red fruit, high acidity, and minimal tannins.
Moscato d'Asti: A semi-sparkling sweet wine made from "Moscato", known for its floral, peach, and honey flavors.
Grignolino: A light red wine with flavors of red berries, rose, and a touch of spice.

Notable Estates and Tasting Notes:

Braida: Famous for "Barbera d'Asti" with bright cherry and spice flavors.
Coppo: Renowned for balanced "Barbera" with red fruit, herbs, and subtle oak.
La Spinetta: Known for "Moscato d'Asti" with intense floral and peach notes.
Vietti: Produces high-quality "Barbera" with deep fruit flavors and a smooth texture.
Tenuta Olim Bauda: Offers traditional "Barbera" with cherry and earthy nuances.
Marchesi di Gresy: Specializes in elegant "Moscato d'Asti" with honey and floral notes.
Michele Chiarlo: Produces expressive "Barbera d'Asti" with vibrant acidity and berry flavors.
Cascina Castlèt: Known for crafting "Grignolino" with fresh red fruit and a hint of spice.

3. Roero

Presentation of the Sub-Region’s Wines: Roero is known for producing high-quality "Nebbiolo" and "Arneis" wines. While its "Nebbiolo" wines are often compared to those from Barolo and Barbaresco, "Roero Arneis" is highly regarded as a distinctive white wine.

Terroir, Climate, and Geography: Roero is characterized by sandy, calcareous soils that give wines their aromatic intensity and elegance. The vineyards are situated on hills with altitudes between 200 and 400 meters. The climate is continental with warm summers and cool, foggy autumns, ideal for "Nebbiolo" to achieve its complex profile. The sandy soil in particular contributes to the softer tannins and floral aromas in "Nebbiolo".

Main Wines:

Roero DOCG: Made from "Nebbiolo", featuring red cherry, rose, and licorice flavors with a more approachable tannic structure than Barolo.
Roero Arneis: A white wine made from "Arneis", showcasing notes of pear, apple, white flowers, and a hint of almond.

Notable Estates and Tasting Notes:

Matteo Correggia: Known for "Roero Arneis" with citrus and floral notes.
Marrone: Produces balanced "Roero" wines with red fruit and soft tannins.
Angelo Negro: Specializes in expressive "Roero Arneis" with pear and herbal flavors.
Malvirà: Offers structured "Roero DOCG" with cherry and rose aromas.
Cascina Val del Prete: Produces "Roero" wines with bright fruit and elegant tannins.
Giovanni Almondo: Renowned for "Arneis" with vibrant fruit and minerality.
Deltetto: Known for fresh, aromatic "Roero Arneis" with crisp acidity.
Cantina dei Produttori di Govone: Offers "Roero" wines with depth and a hint of spice.

4. Gavi (Cortese di Gavi)

Presentation of the Sub-Region’s Wines: Gavi, located in the southeastern part of Piedmont, is known for producing high-quality white wines made from the "Cortese" grape. The wines from this area are known for their crispness, elegance, and minerality.

Terroir, Climate, and Geography: Gavi’s vineyards are situated at altitudes between 250 and 400 meters, with soils that consist of clay and marl, which contribute to the wine's fresh, mineral character. The proximity to the Ligurian Sea brings cooling breezes that moderate the warm, sunny climate, helping maintain the acidity and aromatic qualities of the "Cortese" grape.

Main Wines:

Gavi DOCG: Made from 100% "Cortese", showcasing flavors of green apple, citrus, almond, and mineral notes, with crisp acidity.

Notable Estates and Tasting Notes:

La Scolca: Renowned for producing "Gavi dei Gavi", with intense citrus and almond flavors.
Broglia: Offers elegant "Gavi DOCG" with floral and green apple notes.
Villa Sparina: Known for crisp, mineral-driven "Gavi" with lemon and white flower aromas.
Giustiniana: Specializes in "Gavi" with bright citrus and a hint of salinity.
Tenuta San Pietro: Produces "Gavi" with a balanced profile of citrus and almond flavors.
Castellari Bergaglio: Known for structured "Gavi" with notes of pear and mineral undertones.
Michele Chiarlo: Offers vibrant "Gavi" with fresh acidity and floral highlights.
Batasiolo: Produces "Gavi" with lemon, apple, and a smooth, clean finish.

5. Asti

Presentation of the Sub-Region’s Wines: Asti is famous for its sparkling wines, particularly "Asti Spumante" and "Moscato d’Asti", which are made from the "Moscato Bianco" grape. The region is also known for "Barbera d’Asti", a prominent red wine.

Terroir, Climate, and Geography: The vineyards of Asti are located on rolling hills at altitudes of 150 to 400 meters. The soils are rich in clay and limestone, which contribute to the wines' structure and freshness. The continental climate, with warm summers and cool winters, supports the production of both aromatic whites and structured reds. The gentle slopes allow good sun exposure, enhancing the ripening of the "Moscato Bianco" and "Barbera" grapes.

Main Wines:

Asti Spumante: A fully sparkling wine made from "Moscato Bianco", featuring floral, peach, and honey flavors with a light, frothy texture.
Moscato d’Asti: A semi-sparkling wine with delicate sweetness and flavors of white flowers, apricot, and a touch of orange blossom.
Barbera d’Asti: Made from "Barbera", known for its bright acidity, flavors of cherry, plum, and subtle spice.

Notable Estates and Tasting Notes:

Contratto: Produces high-quality "Asti Spumante" with floral and citrus notes.
Braida: Known for expressive "Barbera d’Asti" with vibrant cherry and spice flavors.
La Spinetta: Offers elegant "Moscato d’Asti" with peach and honey nuances.
Ceretto: Specializes in balanced "Moscato d’Asti" with floral and apricot notes.
Vietti: Produces "Barbera d’Asti" with deep fruit and a smooth finish.
Michele Chiarlo: Known for "Barbera d’Asti" with layers of red fruit and well-integrated tannins.
Batasiolo: Offers "Moscato d’Asti" with light floral and citrus notes.
Cascina Fonda: Focuses on producing bright, aromatic "Moscato d’Asti".

6. Alba

Presentation of the Sub-Region’s Wines: Alba, located in the heart of Piedmont, is best known for "Barolo" and "Barbaresco", but also produces excellent "Barbera d’Alba" and "Dolcetto d’Alba". It is one of the most diverse and prestigious wine areas in the region.

Terroir, Climate, and Geography: The vineyards of Alba are planted on rolling hills with altitudes ranging from 200 to 500 meters. The soils are a mix of clay, limestone, and marl, ideal for producing wines with depth and structure. The continental climate, with hot summers and cool autumns, enhances the development of the complex aromatics in "Nebbiolo" while maintaining the acidity in "Barbera" and "Dolcetto".

Main Wines:

Barbera d’Alba: A vibrant red wine made from "Barbera", with flavors of cherry, blackberry, and hints of spice.
Dolcetto d’Alba: A medium-bodied red wine featuring dark fruit, licorice, and a touch of almond.
Nebbiolo d’Alba: A lighter expression of "Nebbiolo", showcasing red fruit, rose, and earthy notes.

Notable Estates and Tasting Notes:

Pio Cesare: Known for structured "Barbera d’Alba" with rich cherry and spice flavors.
Bruno Giacosa: Renowned for elegant "Nebbiolo d’Alba" with floral and red fruit notes.
Ceretto: Offers complex "Dolcetto d’Alba" with deep fruit and balanced tannins.
G.D. Vajra: Produces expressive "Barbera d’Alba" with bright acidity and plum notes.
Marchesi di Barolo: Known for classic "Dolcetto d’Alba" with dark fruit and licorice hints.
Elio Altare: Focuses on modern-style "Barbera" with concentrated fruit and soft tannins.
Poderi Colla: Offers traditional "Nebbiolo d’Alba" with earthy and floral characteristics.
Damilano: Specializes in "Barbera" with layers of red and dark fruit and a hint of spice.

7. Canavese

Presentation of the Sub-Region’s Wines: Canavese is known for producing both red and white wines, including "Canavese Nebbiolo" and "Erbaluce di Caluso", a distinctive white wine. This region benefits from its proximity to the Alps.

Terroir, Climate, and Geography: The Canavese region is located in the northwestern part of Piedmont and is characterized by its hilly terrain and proximity to the Alps. The soils are a mix of glacial moraine, clay, and sandy components, adding minerality and freshness to the wines. The climate is cooler due to the Alpine influence, with warm summers and cold winters, allowing for a slower ripening period that preserves the acidity and aromatic complexity of the grapes.

Main Wines:

Canavese Nebbiolo: A red wine with flavors of cherry, rose, and subtle earthy notes, with moderate tannins.
Erbaluce di Caluso: A white wine made from "Erbaluce", showcasing flavors of green apple, citrus, and a touch of floral, with crisp acidity.

Notable Estates and Tasting Notes:

Orsolani: Known for high-quality "Erbaluce di Caluso" with citrus and mineral notes.
Cieck: Specializes in expressive "Erbaluce" with green apple and floral aromas.
Cantine Briamara: Produces "Canavese Nebbiolo" with balanced cherry and earthy flavors.
Ferrando: Renowned for elegant "Nebbiolo" with floral notes and fine tannins.
La Masera: Focuses on aromatic "Erbaluce" with bright acidity and freshness.
Tenuta Roletto: Known for both "Erbaluce" and "Nebbiolo" with a focus on clean, mineral expressions.
Favaro: Produces "Canavese Nebbiolo" with structured tannins and a long finish.
Tappero Merlo: Specializes in innovative takes on "Erbaluce", including sparkling versions.

8. Lessona

Presentation of the Sub-Region’s Wines: Lessona is known for producing exceptional "Nebbiolo"-based wines that reflect the region’s unique terroir. These wines are known for their finesse and aging potential.

Terroir, Climate, and Geography: The soils in Lessona are ancient marine sands rich in minerals and iron, giving the wines a distinctive earthy and mineral quality. The vineyards are situated at altitudes between 250 and 400 meters, benefiting from cool Alpine breezes and good sun exposure. This cool-climate setting allows "Nebbiolo" to ripen slowly, developing complex flavors and preserving acidity.

Main Wines:

Lessona DOC: Made primarily from "Nebbiolo", with flavors of red cherry, rose petals, earthy notes, and firm but elegant tannins.

Notable Estates and Tasting Notes:

Proprietà Sperino: Known for refined "Lessona" with bright red fruit, floral notes, and minerality.
Tenute Sella: Produces classic "Lessona" with cherry, spice, and silky tannins.
Massimo Clerico: Offers "Lessona" wines with structured tannins and earthy flavors.
Antichi Vigneti di Cantalupo: Renowned for balanced "Lessona" with red fruit and hints of licorice.
La Badina: Focuses on producing "Lessona" with vibrant acidity and complex flavors.
Castello di Montecavallo: Offers nuanced "Lessona" with depth and age-worthy potential.
Vigneti Valle Roncati: Known for producing "Nebbiolo" with bright red fruit and earthy characteristics.
Francesco Brigatti: Creates elegant "Lessona" with floral and mineral-driven notes.

9. Ghemme

Presentation of the Sub-Region’s Wines: Ghemme, located in northern Piedmont, is known for producing robust, age-worthy "Nebbiolo"-based wines, often blended with "Vespolina" and "Uva Rara".

Terroir, Climate, and Geography: The soils in Ghemme are composed of glacial moraine and clay, which contribute to the wines' firm structure and minerality. The vineyards are positioned at altitudes ranging from 250 to 350 meters, with a continental climate marked by cold winters and warm summers. This setting allows "Nebbiolo" to develop deep flavors and maintain high acidity, perfect for long aging.

Main Wines:

Ghemme DOCG: Primarily made from "Nebbiolo", often blended with "Vespolina" for added spice and "Uva Rara" for softness, with flavors of cherry, plum, licorice, and earth.

Notable Estates and Tasting Notes:

Cantalupo: Known for producing age-worthy "Ghemme" with cherry, tobacco, and firm tannins.
Torraccia del Piantavigna: Offers structured "Ghemme" with plum, spice, and earthy notes.
Antichi Vigneti di Cantalupo: Renowned for balanced "Ghemme" with red fruit and floral undertones.
Le Piane: Specializes in elegant "Nebbiolo" with hints of rose and truffle.
Paride Chiovini: Produces traditional "Ghemme" with a focus on fruit purity and minerality.
Mazzoni: Known for structured "Ghemme" with deep fruit flavors and fine tannins.
Francesco Brigatti: Offers "Ghemme" with earthy tones, cherry, and licorice flavors.
Nino Negri: Known for expressive "Ghemme" with rich fruit and balanced acidity.

10. Carema

Presentation of the Sub-Region’s Wines: Carema is a small, mountainous sub-region located in the northern part of Piedmont, known for producing elegant, age-worthy "Nebbiolo" wines. The wines are often lighter and more floral compared to those from Barolo and Barbaresco.

Terroir, Climate, and Geography: Carema’s vineyards are perched on steep, terraced slopes at altitudes ranging from 300 to 600 meters. The soils are composed of granite and schist, which contribute to the wines' mineral profile. The region's cool climate, influenced by the nearby Alps, ensures a long growing season, allowing "Nebbiolo" to develop nuanced flavors and maintain its natural acidity.

Main Wines:

Carema DOC: Made from "Nebbiolo", showcasing flavors of red cherry, rose, tar, and a touch of earthiness, with a refined structure and silky tannins.

Notable Estates and Tasting Notes:

Produttori di Carema: Known for classic "Carema" with floral notes, cherry, and a mineral backbone.
Ferrando: Renowned for producing "Carema" with depth, elegance, and aging potential.
Cantina Sociale di Carema: Offers "Carema" with bright acidity, red fruit, and subtle earthiness.
Orsolani: Produces well-balanced "Carema" with floral and herbal notes.
Francesco Borgogno: Focuses on expressive "Carema" with complex fruit and fine tannins.
Antiche Cantine Bosco: Known for traditional "Carema" with structured tannins and vibrant fruit.
Luigi Ferrando: Produces "Carema" with a distinctive mineral and floral profile.
Mauro Molino: Specializes in crafting "Carema" with refined elegance and balance.

11. Boca

Presentation of the Sub-Region’s Wines: Boca is a historic wine region in northern Piedmont that produces complex "Nebbiolo"-based wines, often blended with "Vespolina" and "Bonarda" (Uva Rara). The wines from this region are known for their structure, elegance, and aging potential.

Terroir, Climate, and Geography: The vineyards of Boca are located at altitudes between 350 and 500 meters and are surrounded by forests, which help regulate the temperature and maintain humidity. The soils are rich in volcanic rock and porphyry, contributing to the mineral character of the wines. The region experiences a cool, continental climate with significant temperature variations, ideal for the slow ripening of "Nebbiolo" and the development of complex aromas.

Main Wines:

Boca DOC: A blend dominated by "Nebbiolo" with smaller proportions of "Vespolina" and "Bonarda", offering flavors of red cherry, rose, herbs, and earthy notes with firm tannins.

Notable Estates and Tasting Notes:

Le Piane: Known for producing elegant "Boca" with red fruit, floral notes, and structured tannins.
Podere ai Valloni: Offers "Boca" with bright acidity, cherry, and mineral undertones.
Cantine del Castello Conti: Renowned for "Boca" with earthy, herbal notes and long aging potential.
Sella: Produces complex "Boca" with balanced fruit and tannins.
Antico Borgo dei Cavalli: Focuses on expressive "Boca" with floral and spice accents.
Francesco Brigatti: Known for structured "Boca" with red fruit and a hint of licorice.
Paolo Ferri: Offers "Boca" with vibrant fruit and a touch of minerality.
Torraccia del Piantavigna: Specializes in elegant "Boca" with floral and earthy nuances.

12. Bramaterra

Presentation of the Sub-Region’s Wines: Bramaterra is a lesser-known but high-quality sub-region of northern Piedmont that produces "Nebbiolo"-based wines often blended with "Vespolina" and "Croatina". These wines are known for their rustic charm and firm structure.

Terroir, Climate, and Geography: The vineyards of Bramaterra are located at altitudes between 300 and 500 meters and are characterized by their volcanic soils rich in iron and minerals. The climate is continental with warm days and cool nights, creating conditions ideal for slow grape maturation. This combination of volcanic soil and climate contributes to the wines' robust tannins and earthy, mineral flavors.

Main Wines:

Bramaterra DOC: A blend primarily of "Nebbiolo", with "Vespolina" and "Croatina", offering flavors of cherry, plum, spices, and earthy notes with firm tannins.

Notable Estates and Tasting Notes:

Tenuta Sella: Known for traditional "Bramaterra" with dark fruit, spice, and a firm structure.
La Palazzina: Produces "Bramaterra" with vibrant acidity, cherry, and mineral undertones.
Antico Borgo dei Cavalli: Offers expressive "Bramaterra" with floral and earthy notes.
Ca’ Nova: Renowned for "Bramaterra" with structured tannins and complex flavors of red and dark fruit.
Francesco Brigatti: Produces "Bramaterra" with deep flavors of cherry, truffle, and subtle spice.
Pietro Cassina: Known for "Bramaterra" with a strong mineral profile and balanced tannins.
Cascina Preziosa: Specializes in elegant "Bramaterra" with rich fruit and earthy undertones.
Rossetti & Scrivani: Offers "Bramaterra" with floral notes and a touch of licorice.

13. Valtellina

Presentation of the Sub-Region’s Wines: Valtellina, located in the northern part of Piedmont near the Swiss border, is known for producing "Nebbiolo"-based wines (locally known as "Chiavennasca"). The wines from this region are elegant, aromatic, and known for their ability to age gracefully.

Terroir, Climate, and Geography: Valtellina’s vineyards are terraced on steep slopes that require hand-harvesting due to their challenging topography. The soils are primarily composed of granite and sand, which contribute to the wines’ mineral profile. The region’s climate is Alpine, with cool temperatures and significant temperature fluctuations between day and night. This unique environment allows "Nebbiolo" to ripen slowly, resulting in wines with bright acidity and complex aromas.

Main Wines:

Valtellina Superiore DOCG: Made from "Chiavennasca", offering flavors of cherry, rose, spice, and a hint of minerality, with firm tannins.
Sforzato di Valtellina DOCG: A dried grape wine similar to Amarone, featuring concentrated flavors of dark fruit, licorice, and spice.

Notable Estates and Tasting Notes:

Nino Negri: Known for producing age-worthy "Valtellina Superiore" with red fruit and floral notes.
Ar.Pe.Pe.: Renowned for elegant "Valtellina" wines with cherry, rose, and balanced acidity.
Rainoldi: Offers traditional "Sforzato di Valtellina" with concentrated dark fruit and spice.
Mamete Prevostini: Produces expressive "Valtellina Superiore" with plum and earthy undertones.
Balgera: Known for structured "Valtellina" wines with red fruit and fine tannins.
Dirupi: Focuses on modern-style "Valtellina Superiore" with bright fruit and a smooth finish.
Cantina Sociale di Triasso e Sassella: Produces classic "Valtellina" with cherry and floral notes.
La Spia: Known for bold "Sforzato" wines with complex spice and fruit profiles.

14. Dolcetto Regions (Dogliani, Diano d’Alba, and Ovada)

Presentation of the Sub-Region’s Wines: These regions are known for producing "Dolcetto", a grape that yields approachable and fruit-forward red wines with moderate tannins and bright acidity.

Terroir, Climate, and Geography: The Dolcetto regions feature rolling hills with altitudes ranging from 200 to 500 meters. The soils are a mix of clay, limestone, and marl, providing good drainage and contributing to the wines' structure and minerality. The climate is continental, with warm summers and cooler evenings, which helps maintain the balance between fruitiness and acidity in the wines.

Main Wines:

Dogliani DOCG: A "Dolcetto" wine known for its dark cherry, blackberry, and licorice flavors, with soft tannins.
Diano d’Alba DOCG: A "Dolcetto" variant that often has a lighter, more floral profile with red fruit and subtle spice.
Ovada DOCG: A structured "Dolcetto" wine with flavors of dark berries, plum, and earthy notes.

Notable Estates and Tasting Notes:

Pecchenino: Known for rich "Dogliani" with dark cherry and a touch of spice.
Chionetti: Offers traditional "Dolcetto" with balanced acidity and blackberry flavors.
Luigi Einaudi: Produces elegant "Dogliani" with red fruit and fine tannins.
Alessandro e Gian Natale Fantino: Renowned for structured "Dolcetto di Diano d’Alba" with floral and berry notes.
Cascina del Monastero: Known for expressive "Dolcetto" with bright fruit and a smooth finish.
Rinaldi Vini: Specializes in "Ovada" wines with dark fruit and an earthy touch.
Cascina Corte: Produces "Dogliani" with rich flavors of plum and licorice.
Cantina di Clavesana: Offers approachable "Dogliani" with fresh fruit and moderate tannins.

15. Colli Tortonesi

Presentation of the Sub-Region’s Wines: Colli Tortonesi is best known for producing "Timorasso", a high-quality white wine that has seen a revival in recent years. The region also produces "Barbera" and other red varieties.

Terroir, Climate, and Geography: The vineyards of Colli Tortonesi are located on hills with altitudes of 250 to 400 meters. The soils are primarily clay and limestone, contributing to the wines' mineral quality and complexity. The climate is continental with warm days and cool nights, which helps retain acidity and enhance the aromatic profile of the wines.

Main Wines:

Timorasso DOC: A white wine known for its complex flavors of pear, citrus, honey, and a pronounced mineral finish.
Barbera Colli Tortonesi: A red wine with bright acidity, flavors of cherry, plum, and a touch of spice.

Notable Estates and Tasting Notes:

Walter Massa: The pioneer of "Timorasso" revival, known for wines with citrus, pear, and strong minerality.
Vigneti Massa: Produces high-quality "Timorasso" with honey and herbal notes.
Claudio Mariotto: Offers expressive "Timorasso" with floral, citrus, and mineral characteristics.
La Colombera: Known for "Timorasso" with depth, citrus flavors, and a long finish.
Cantine Volpi: Specializes in "Barbera" with bright cherry and balanced acidity.
Pico Maccario: Produces "Timorasso" with a focus on structure and minerality.
Castello di Grillano: Offers "Barbera" with ripe fruit and smooth tannins.
Valli Unite: Known for biodynamic "Timorasso" and "Barbera" with vibrant flavors.

16. Gattinara

Presentation of the Sub-Region’s Wines: Gattinara is one of Piedmont’s most prestigious sub-regions for producing "Nebbiolo"-based wines, known for their elegance and aging potential. The wines from Gattinara are often more refined and lighter than those from Barolo but still exhibit complexity and structure.

Terroir, Climate, and Geography: The vineyards of Gattinara are located on the western side of the Sesia River at altitudes between 300 and 500 meters. The soils are rich in volcanic rock, which imparts a unique mineral quality to the wines. The climate is continental, with cooler temperatures that help maintain the high acidity characteristic of "Nebbiolo" while allowing the development of complex flavors over a long ripening period.

Main Wines:

Gattinara DOCG: Made primarily from "Nebbiolo", offering flavors of cherry, tar, rose, and spice, with firm tannins and a long finish.

Notable Estates and Tasting Notes:

Travaglini: Known for structured "Gattinara" with red fruit, floral notes, and balanced tannins.
Antoniolo: Renowned for producing complex "Gattinara" with cherry, tobacco, and spice.
Nervi (Conterno): Offers elegant "Gattinara" with bright acidity and layers of red fruit and earthy tones.
Torraccia del Piantavigna: Produces "Gattinara" with deep fruit, firm tannins, and mineral nuances.
Luigi Nervi & Figlio: Specializes in traditional "Gattinara" with floral, tar, and cherry characteristics.
Sella: Known for elegant "Gattinara" with a focus on minerality and refined tannins.
Cantalupo: Produces "Gattinara" with bright fruit, floral notes, and a long aging potential.
Mauro Franchino: Offers classic-style "Gattinara" with earthy and floral tones.

17. Gavi di Gavi

Presentation of the Sub-Region’s Wines: While Gavi was previously discussed, the specific "Gavi di Gavi" designation refers to wines made in the town of Gavi itself, known for producing some of the highest-quality "Cortese" wines. These wines are often more complex and structured than those from surrounding areas.

Terroir, Climate, and Geography: Gavi di Gavi's vineyards are located on rolling hills with altitudes between 250 and 400 meters. The soils consist of limestone and clay, contributing to the mineral backbone of the wines. The region benefits from a mild Mediterranean influence due to its proximity to the Ligurian Sea, which helps maintain freshness and acidity in the grapes.

Main Wines:

Gavi di Gavi DOCG: Made from "Cortese", showcasing notes of citrus, green apple, almond, and mineral, with crisp acidity and a long finish.

Notable Estates and Tasting Notes:

La Scolca: Known for producing premium "Gavi di Gavi" with intense citrus and almond notes.
Broglia: Renowned for "Gavi di Gavi" with floral, green apple, and mineral characteristics.
Villa Sparina: Offers elegant "Gavi di Gavi" with lemon, pear, and a crisp finish.
Giustiniana: Specializes in structured "Gavi di Gavi" with bright acidity and complex flavors.
Castellari Bergaglio: Produces "Gavi di Gavi" with flavors of pear, citrus, and a touch of almond.
Tenuta San Pietro: Known for "Gavi di Gavi" with a harmonious balance of fruit and minerality.
Michele Chiarlo: Offers vibrant "Gavi di Gavi" with floral and citrus highlights.
Batasiolo: Produces "Gavi di Gavi" with crisp apple, lemon, and a smooth finish.

18. Vespolina Sub-Regions

Presentation of the Sub-Region’s Wines: Vespolina is a native Piedmontese grape that is often blended with "Nebbiolo" to add spice and complexity to the wines. The sub-regions where Vespolina thrives include "Bramaterra", "Lessona", and "Ghemme". Pure Vespolina wines are known for their floral and spicy character.

Terroir, Climate, and Geography: Vespolina thrives in the northern sub-regions of Piedmont, where the soils are rich in minerals and volcanic rock. The climate is cool, with warm summers and significant diurnal temperature variations, which help maintain acidity and enhance the aromatic profile of the grapes. These conditions are ideal for producing structured, aromatic wines with good aging potential.

Main Wines:

Vespolina DOC: A red wine showcasing flavors of red berries, rose, peppery spice, and earthy undertones.

Notable Estates and Tasting Notes:

Le Piane: Known for producing "Vespolina" with bright red fruit and a spicy finish.
Sella: Offers "Vespolina" with floral, pepper, and earthy characteristics.
Antichi Vigneti di Cantalupo: Specializes in "Vespolina" blends with vibrant fruit and structured tannins.
Francesco Brigatti: Produces expressive "Vespolina" with cherry, rose, and a hint of black pepper.
Pietro Cassina: Focuses on pure "Vespolina" with intense spice and floral notes.
La Palazzina: Known for balanced "Vespolina" with fresh acidity and fruit-driven flavors.
Cascina Preziosa: Offers "Vespolina" with lively fruit, floral hints, and a touch of spice.
Paride Chiovini: Produces "Vespolina" with complex fruit and peppery undertones.