Summary
The heartland of Italian wine, Piedmont boasts an assortment of red wines, the stars being Barolo and Barbaresco. These wines are created from the Nebbiolo grape, offering flavours reminiscent of tar, roses, and red cherries. Barbera and Dolcetto are other indigenous grapes producing wines with their own unique flavours. Barbera is fruity with high acidity, while Dolcetto is soft and easy-to-drink. Though Piedmont is majorly recognised for its reds, the Moscato d’Asti, a sweet sparkling wine from the Moscato grape, can’t be ignored. Many of the region’s vineyards are cloaked in fog in the mornings, leading to its name Piedmont, meaning “foot of the mountain”.
Climate & Grape varieties
Surrounded by the Alps to its north and west, and the Apennines to its south, Piedmont experiences a continental climate, although microclimates are common due to its hilly terrain. Winters are cold and long, and summers are warm, but moderated by the altitude and foggy conditions. This results in a delayed ripening of the grapes, giving Nebbiolo its unique aroma and flavor profiles. Nebbiolo rules the wine scene in Barolo and Barbaresco, but Barbera is the most widely planted grape. The region also produces whites like Gavi, made from the Cortese grape, which offers a crisp and floral profile. Among the sweet wines, Moscato d’Asti stands out with its refreshing and delicate effervescence. Wines from Asti, particularly Barbera d’Asti, offer delightful acidity and balance. Another notable wine from the region is the sparkling Alta Langa, made in the traditional method from Pinot Nero and Chardonnay.