If you are planning a wine tourism trip in Italy, surely Piedmont is on your list. Piemonte, or Piedmont is full of rolling hills, winding roads, but best known for its rich culture of food and wine. There are more wineries than you can count, with 42 DOC and 17 DOCG. Wine comes from the hills of the South facing regions, while the Northern facing part of the province has another treat in store for you – hazelnuts.
It can be overwhelming when planning a tasting trip through Piedmont because of the incredible number of options. You will never be able to try everything, but one can certainly try!Producing almost 70% red wines it is home to Nebbiolo, Barbaresco, Barbera, Dolcetto, and most famously Barolo. Becoming famous with the film “Barolo Boys” in the 1980’s, the film elevated Barolo from an almost unknown wine (and region) to one of the most well respected reds (and regions) in the world. White wines from the area include Moscato Bianco, Coretese, and Arneis.
So while it is possible to go anywhere in the Piedmont wine regions and have a good wine, Barolo can be confusing and a bit intimidating. Below are some suggestions of wineries and tips to start your trip in Barolo off on the right foot. Be sure to book your tastings ahead of time.
Wineries not to miss (or start off your tasting experience):
Vajra
Beautiful wines, full tasting room, great to get an understanding of the area and its wines.
Lodali
Small winery with big bold wines full of personality. A great contrast to some of the other wineries of the area.
Marchesi di Gresy
Historical, luxurious, but not overpriced, all encompassing tour and tasting with various vintages. Book an appointment.
Costa di Bussia
Incredible historical story, beautiful location.
Costa di Bussia cantina agriturismo Barolo
What are you looking to try? It depends where you are, but when looking for a Barolo look for ones that are 10 years old (or older), keep the aging in mind when you are buying.
Barbera, my personal favourite, is spicy, a bit fruity and acidic, but with a full body. It is a great wine to experience across different areas and really get a taste for its terroir.
Arneis and Dolcetto are your every day drinking, simple but very good in their uniqueness, easy drinking compared to Barbera and Barolo which are quite heavy and remind you of winter or a hearty meal. Don’t forget to try Moscato D’Asti, which makes a sparkling sweet Asti Spumante for you to enjoy before or after dinner, most often used for a sweet wine to accompany your dessert.
The decadent foods from Langue region will never disappoint those looking for a meal. Don’t forget to try: white truffles, tajarin (a type of pasta) with their famous ragu, and Vitello Tonnato (sliced veal with creamy tuna sauce – it may sound strange, but it is delicious), and hazelnuts from a small farm.
Do enjoy the glorious views from every corner of Barolo. The area is rich in history, culture, beauty, and most importantly everywhere you go there is great wine.
tor travels for wine 