All the Different Shades of Piedmontese Red Wine

The region offers some of the most successful examples of the perfect synergy between the vine and the territory. The Nebbiolo grape, for example, considered by many to be the region's great native grape, acquires different names and characteristics depending on the various micro-terroirs in which it is grown.

The most famous clones give rise to the DOCGs of Barbaresco and Barolo, which are true national treasures. While the first denomination includes only the municipalities of Barbaresco, Neive, Treiso and part of the hamlet of San Rocco, the second comprises no less than 11 municipalities: Barolo, Castiglione Falletto, Serralunga d'Alba, La Morra, Monforte d'Alba, Roddi, Verduno, Cherasco, Diano d'Alba, Novello and Grinzane Cavour. These territories form the heart of the Langhe, which is a hilly area in the province of Cuneo characterised by clay and limestone soils.

In the province of Cuneo, separated from the Langhe by the Tanaro river, lie the Roero hills, which are characterised by a more sandy soil composition. Here, the same grapes are used to produce the Roero denomination, which is currently enjoying strong growth in production.

Carema is produced on the border with the Val d'Aosta region. It is the result of a long-standing tradition of heroic vine-growing, using ancient agricultural practices, such as the Canavese topia, a form of pergola vine training, arranged on terraces and supported by large rocky pillars. The result is a Piedmontese mountain red wine, characterised by tenacity, freshness, minerality, character and elegance.

The northern part of the region offers equally valid and lesser-known wines with great longevity. Lessona and Bramaterra are produced in the province of Biella. In the province of Vercelli, Gattinara is produced, while Ghemme and Boca are produced in the province of Novara.

Monferrato, on the other hand, is the kingdom of Barbera, which is a strong and generous vine that reaches maximum strength and complexity in the Barbera d'Asti and Nizza DOCG denominations. The same vine is also cultivated with outstanding results in the Langhe and the rest of the region. Very often it is vinified still and dry, and more rarely in a semi-sparkling version. The main tendency nowadays is to enhance its more intense, warm and structured qualities.

Dolcetto, a traditional native vine, is successfully expressed in different territories, forming different denominations. Its most common characteristics are freshness, delicacy and ease of drinking.

In the Langhe area we find:

• Dogliani DOCG
• Dolcetto di Diano d'Alba DOCG
• Dolcetto d'Alba DOC

In the Monferrato area we find:

• Dolcetto d'Asti DOC
• Ovada DOCG

Other red Piedmont wines that are strictly territorial and traditional are: Grignolino del Monferrato Casalese, Ruchè di Castagnole Monferrato, Pelaverga di Verduno, Brachetto d'Acqui and Freisa di Chieri.

These are just a few of the most famous and well-known names of Piedmont's red wines. In fact, the whole panorama is vast and diversified. More and more producers are dedicating themselves to international varieties, such as Pinot Noir, but these are only exceptional and sporadic cases. Most producers prefer to remain faithful to the strongest traditions, based on that close synergy between vines and territory that has provided great satisfaction and excitement throughout the world.

The Best Gastronomic Pairings

The great red wines of Piedmont are present on the most prestigious tables all over the world. The complexity, richness, structure, elegance and great evolutionary potential of these expressions offer unique emotions that can be enhanced by specific culinary pairings.

Like most red wines, Nebbiolo-based Piedmontese wines, for example, thanks to their solid and pleasantly astringent tannins, give their best when paired with succulent and tasty meat dishes, rich in sauces and gravies. Tapulòn, brasà and civet are some examples of stews, braised meats and casseroles. Excellent alternatives are truffles and mature cheeses such as Castelmagno.

The more common Barbera wines are more versatile on the everyday table. They can be served with first and second courses such as: caponet, lamb chops, veal in tuna sauce, finanziera and mixed fried food. The freshness and delicacy of Dolcetto wine is a perfect partner for meat tartare, cured meats and sausages, fish and steamed vegetables.

Would you like to experience all the emotions and charm that only the best Piedmont red wines can offer? On Callmewine you can find the greatest bottles for sale at the best online prices. Discover the history, organoleptic characteristics and suggested pairings provided by our expert sommeliers and choose the perfect bottle for every occasion.