Piedmont is often revered as one of the noblest wine making regions in the world.   Piedmont produces one of our favorite whites and also has some excellent value reds.  We’re going to introduce you to a few of our favorites from this region.

The Barolo (made from the Nebbiolo grape) has been known as the king of wines and wine of kings.  The current global market is demanding a king’s ransom to garner a bottle.  The price of the Nebbiolo grape is influenced by its sensitivity to climate and soils and the fact that very few clones have been exported to other countries.  These factors combine to increase the demand on the grapes from this region.  Some winemakers have even said that the Nebbiolo grape is more sensitive than Pinot Noir which means great care must be taken to produce consistent quality wines.

Many producers adhere to the same exacting standards for all of their varietal bottlings, and have begun joyously marketing a Nebbiolo label.  The wines these producers make allow us to enjoy the Nebbiolo grape at an affordable price.   Barbera has been described as successfully delivering the smooth tannins and fruit that Merlot always promised.  Dolcetto meaning “little sweet one” is a relative term comparing it to Nebbiolo.  Dolcetto is a great wine to enjoy if you don’t have the patience to wait a decade for your Barolo to open up and show it’s best.

Here are some great wines to get started with that allow you to enjoy Nebbiolo.  These wines pair very well with strongly-flavored meats and dry, aged cheeses that may overpower other wines.

Pio Cesare 2005 Cortese di Gavi
100% Cortese

This is one of our favorite whites.  Gavi is a clear straw yellow, with green reflections. The bouquet is intense and ethereal, reminiscent of ripe fruit, green apples and moss. The palate is full and flavorful, yet soft, with a daring hint of green fruit. It is a harmoniously balanced wine

Marcarini 2006 Dolcetto d’Alba “Fontanazza”
100% Dolcetto

Magnificent ruby-red color with lovely violet reflections. The intense and persistent nose offers floral and fruity sensations with evident signs of sweet spices. The palate is characterized by the same sensations, exalted by a pleasant acidity and a delicate, slightly bitter aftertaste.

Renato Ratti 2006 Barbera d’Alba
100% Barbera

Rich in body and in color, warm and robust, pleasantly tart when young, a wine suitable to aging. The particular soils of La Morra yield to it a measured acidity along with superb elegance.

Renato Ratti 2006 Nebbiolo d’Alba
100% Nebbiolo

Class and spontaneous vivacity are the distinguishing characteristics of a Nebbiolo d’Alba.  An ancient wine from the Roero District (sandy hills situated above the left banks of the Tanaro River) it was already a regular fixture at the Royal Savoia Cellars in the early 17th Century.

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