Writing about Piedmont's wines is never simple. Just thinking about this beautiful region fills me with a warm, comfortable awe that’s present every single time I stand before the wines of Gaja, Conterno or Fenocchio.
When you observe His Majesty Barolo dancing around in a tasting glass, it’s almost as if the wine's slow, rhythmic movements are moving in time to music. Nebbiolo, the real pride of this region that gives life to the Barbaresco and Barolo, is one of the most elegant grape varieties in the world and is very difficult to grow, just like Pinot Noir and Sangiovese.
Piedmont is a majestic, serious and austere region; it gives off an almost black and white vintage atmosphere, while its high altitude means there’s always a chill in the air. It dominates your feelings with its tall mountains, but at the same time the sun on the Langhe is warm, colorful and elegant enough to make this area a UNESCO world heritage site. The blend of rich culture, centuries-old tradition and stunning landscapes can all be tasted in Piedmont’s unique wines, which withstand the flow of time without compromise.
The amazing thing is that this region has no IGTs; the only appellations are seventeen DOCGs and forty-four DOCs. These appellations, however, cover more than eighty percent of Piedmont's production, underlining the attachment this region has to its great winemaking traditions. The clash between traditionalists and modernists has only come to the surface in modern times.
The grapes grown in Piedmont are mostly red, but the cool climate and a particular terroir also allows the production of great quality white wines and historically even some sparkling.
