Get to know: Piedmont

Located in the northwest of Italy, Piedmont is one of Italy’s most renowned wine regions, particularly famous for its Nebbiolo grape, which is the foundation of some of the most complex and age-worthy wines in the world. The region is nestled between the Alps and the Apennines, and its hilly landscapes provide ideal conditions for growing high-quality grapes. Piedmont's wines are known for their structure, balance, and depth of flavour.

Key Regions in Piedmont Wine

Barolo
Often referred to as the “King of Wines,” Barolo is made primarily from Nebbiolo and is known for its rich, full-bodied character. These wines are complex, with aromas of rose petals, tar, cherries, and earthy notes. Aged for several years, Barolo develops a beautiful balance of tannins and acidity, making it a wine that improves with age. It is a wine that pairs wonderfully with rich, hearty dishes like braised meats or truffles.

Barbaresco
Just to the east of Barolo, Barbaresco is often seen as the “Queen of Wines” from the region. It is made from the same Nebbiolo grape but typically offers a more accessible, lighter style with similar elegant characteristics. The wines have floral aromas and flavours of ripe red fruits, with softer tannins than Barolo, making them easier to drink in their youth while still capable of ageing gracefully.

Langhe
The Langhe region is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its picturesque rolling hills and its contribution to some of Piedmont’s finest wines, including both Barolo and Barbaresco. Along with Nebbiolo, the Langhe is also home to other high-quality varieties like Dolcetto, Barbera, and Arneis. Wines from this region tend to have fresh, fruity profiles and are fantastic for everyday drinking.

Gavi
Gavi is one of Piedmont’s most celebrated white wines, made from the Cortese grape. Known for its crisp acidity and vibrant citrus flavours, Gavi offers refreshing minerality and a touch of green apple. It’s a perfect choice for seafood, shellfish, or light pasta dishes, offering a wonderful contrast to the richer reds that Piedmont is famous for.

Key Grape Varieties:

Nebbiolo
The star grape of Piedmont, Nebbiolo is famed for producing wines of incredible complexity and longevity. It’s known for its high acidity, firm tannins, and distinct aromas of tar, roses, cherries, and herbs. Nebbiolo wines are often long-lived and can be enjoyed young or aged for many years, developing greater depth over time.

Barbera
Barbera is the most widely planted grape in Piedmont and is known for producing wines with juicy red fruit flavours, vibrant acidity, and a softer tannin profile. Barbera wines are typically easy-drinking and versatile, perfect for pairing with a wide range of dishes, from pasta to grilled meats.

Dolcetto
Dolcetto is a softer, fruitier red grape that produces wines that are easy to drink and often a bit lighter than Nebbiolo-based wines. With flavours of blackberries, plums, and a touch of almonds, Dolcetto wines are perfect for casual drinking or pairing with everyday meals.

Cortese
The Cortese grape is the star behind Gavi, Piedmont’s most famous white wine. Gavi wines are known for their crisp acidity, citrusy flavours, and clean finish, making them a perfect choice for fresh, seafood-based dishes or as an aperitif.