Piedmont is considered one of the top wine growing regions in Italy. From Nebbiolo to Cortese, there are a range of grape varieties grown in this region. Barolo and Barbaresco are the most well-known wines coming from this region; each of these is Nebbiolo-based. Besides Nebbiolo, Barbera, Dolcetto, Moscato and Cortese are all commonly found in Piedmont. While Piedmont is marked by the Alps to the north, most of the quality wine growing areas of Piedmont are to the south where Apennine Mountains are located.
An Overview of Grape Varietals Grown in Piedmont
Nebbiolo
Nebbiolo makes up less production than Barbera but it is known to be of a higher quality. With strong tannins and cherry and dark fruit notes, Nebbiolo is well suited for aging. In fact, the Piedmont Nebbiolo wines ideally should be aged for 10-15 years for a beautifully balanced wine. Barolo and Barbaresco, two regions within Piedmont producing wines of the same name grown Nebbiolo.
Barbera
Barbera is the most planted grape in Piedmont. It is quite hardy so fares well in this region. Barbera wines are marked by a deep red colour and notes of black cherry and herbs. There are two DOCG regions producing Barbera in Piedmont: Barbera d’Asti and Barbera del Monferrato Superiore. Wines from these regions will generally be higher quality and will age well.
Moscato
Another common wine coming from Piedmont is Moscato. The most well-known region within Piedmont for Moscato is Asti. As you can see, this is also a region for Barbera. Moscato d’Asti is a lightly sparkling sweet wine with low alcohol. Asti Spumante is a lively sparkling wine that is also sweet but with higher alcohol than Moscato d’Asti. We recommend trying both to see which you prefer.
Our Wine Recommendations:
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Il Poeta Barolo - 2016
The delicious - and reasonably priced - Barolo is a great example of the Nebbiolo grape grown in Piedmont. Smooth tannins and cherry, plum and spice notes distinguish this delicious wine.
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Villa dei Ladri - 2016
This classic Piemontese wine is made with the strong Nebbiolo grape blended with the softer Barbera grape. This is an intense wine that spends a year in cask, imparting cedar and tobacco notes.
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Batasiolo Bosc D'la Rei Moscato d'Asti - N.V.
This Moscato d’Asti has apple and peach notes along with a balancing minerality. A slight honey characteristic complements the sweet yet crispness of this lightly sparkling wine.
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