Piedmont

1. Overview

Piedmont is a famous wine region in northwest Italy.
It is best known for Nebbiolo, the grape used in Barolo and Barbaresco, two of Italy’s most respected red wines.
Other popular grapes include Barbera, Dolcetto, and white grapes like Cortese, Arneis, and Timorasso.

2. What the Wines Taste Like

• Nebbiolo wines (Barolo, Barbaresco): light in colour but strong in flavour, with cherry, rose, and earthy notes.
• Barbera: juicy, fruity, high acidity.
• Dolcetto: soft, fruity, easy to drink.
• Cortese (Gavi): fresh and citrusy.
• Arneis: fruity and smooth.
• Timorasso: richer, more powerful white wine.

3. Climate & Landscape

• Cool continental climate with warm summers
• Foggy autumns
• Hills with different soils: limestone, clay, sandstone
• Ideal for long-ripening grapes like Nebbiolo

4. Key Wine Areas

• Barolo: powerful, long-aged Nebbiolo
• Barbaresco: similar but more elegant and earlier-drinking
• Langhe Nebbiolo: lighter Nebbiolo
• Roero: fruity white Arneis
• Gavi: crisp Cortese whites
• Alto Piemonte: elegant Nebbiolo from volcanic soils

5. Summary

Piedmont produces many of Italy’s best wines.
Nebbiolo makes complex reds, while Barbera, Dolcetto, and several white grapes give a wide range of styles.
This is a region known for flavour, tradition, and long-lived wines.