Some of Italy's most celebrated wines are produced in Piedmont. When it comes to these Piedmontese wines, the spotlight is on Barolo and Barbaresco, the world-renowned reds made from Nebbiolo that can age for decades, but the region also boasts plenty of other wines worth a sip.
Barbera and Dolcetto are two red wines made from the grape varieties bearing their respective names. Both represent an equally genuine, though a tad bit less “snobbish,” flavor of the region. The delicious, little-known grape variety Pelaverga proffers up subtle, deep, and elegant reds produced in Verduno, a region located in the province of Cuneo.
Among Piedmontese wines, the most interesting whites are those from Gavi, made from the Cortese grape; Roero made from the Arneis grape; and the Tortona hills made with Timorasso, powerful and durable wines. Though its production is limited, the most unsung white grape is Nascetta, a rare, indigenous variety of the Langhe that has almost disappeared and has been revived with exciting results, one of which comes in the form of a Classic Method sparkling wine in the Alta Langa. Speaking of bubbles, there's also Moscato d'Asti and Asti Spumante, which are undergoing a rebirth.
Here are some Piedmontese wines worth a taste.
1. Gavi dei Gavi Black Label 2019 La Scolca
From old vines, this fresh and balanced Gavi has a mineral flavor complemented by aromas of dried fruit that intensify with age. Enjoy it alongside chicken with champignon mushrooms. website
2. Barolo Cannubi 2015 Borgogno
This long-lived wine comes from one of the DOC's most famous crus, and they're known for balsamic aromas, berries, and spices. Sip it alongside Barolo-braised meat. website
3. Alta Langa Brut 2016 Ettore Germano
Sergio Germano is one of those producers who has the rare ability to transform every wine he produces into a small masterpiece. And so alongside his Barolos and excellent Riesling is Pinot Noir and Chardonnay blend. The elegant and structured sparkler is aged for almost three years on the lees. It's excellent with bread, butter, and anchovies. website
4. Barbaresco Gallina 2016 Piero Busso
Powerful and harmonious, this wine is a stellar expression of Barbaresco, with typical aromas of violets and undergrowth. Pair it with roasted lamb. website
5. Nice La Court Riserva 2017 Michele Chiarlo
A wide, intense, and fine Barbera, from an area so suited to have earned its own denomination. It smells of black cherry and cocoa and has a fresh, soft flavor. Enjoy it alongside roasted veal with porcini mushrooms. website