Italy's Piedmont
Situated in the northwest, Piedmont shares borders with France and Switzerland. The region’s Italian name, Piemonte, translates to foot of the mountains, which is a fitting descriptor for its subalpine location and the fact that it’s surrounded by mountains on three sides—the Alps in the north and west and the Apennines in the south.
There are two distinct winemaking areas in Piedmont. One is northeast of Turin in an area near Lake Maggiore. The other, which is the region’s real heartland, is located southeast of the city in the provinces of Asti, Alessandria, and Cuneo. The highest concentration of vineyards altogether is in the Langhe and the Monferrato hills. This is where the region’s most acclaimed vineyard sites can be found. The land here is strikingly dense with vines. The surface area of some villages, particularly around Barbaresco, is almost entirely planted with curving rows of grapevines.
As a wine region, Piedmont has had enormous success cultivating its own indigenous varieties. Though some international grapes like Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc are planted here, the region is renowned for its red wines made from grapes like Nebbiolo, Barbera, and Dolcetto and whites made from Cortese, Arneis, and Moscato.
Ercole Bianco Monferrato 2024 $15 - Fresh aromas of Asian and Bartlett pear meet lime citrus, white flowers and green apple, alongside a flinty minerality over white nectarine and herbs. The palate is as refreshing as its nose suggests, and mirrors notes of citrus, pear, and apple, finishing high on a wave of minerality. 80% Cortese, 15% Chardonnay, 5% Sauvignon Blanc
Corsini 2022 Langhe Rosso “Matot" $16 - Dolcetto, Nebbiolo and Barbera. The resulting wine exhibits a deep ruby red color with violet hues. The bouquet is rich and complex, dominated by black cherry, blackberry, and currant aromas, complemented by subtle notes of earth, tobacco, and leather. On the palate, it is well-structured, balancing lively acidity and moderate tannins, with flavors of juicy dark fruits and hints of pepper leading to a dry finish.
Ricossa Barbera d’Asti 2021 $18 - It is the most widespread grape variety in Piedmont, and one of the most versatile. Over time Barbera has become one of the most representative and interesting wines of Piedmont, with very interesting evolution and aging potential. Deep color, it has notes of red fruits such as blackberries, cherries and currants, homemade grandmother’s jams, and a touch of vanilla. The palate is a wine with an enveloping body and delicate tannins, fresh and with a balanced finish.
Ca’ del Baio Dolcetto D’Alba 2024 $20 - Vibrant violet-ruby in the glass. The nose offers ripe red plum, blueberry, and a hint of licorice, lifted by floral notes and a touch of spice. On the palate, it is fresh and supple, with soft tannins framing juicy fruit and subtle bitter almond. The finish is smooth and bright with energetic lift.
Bonus Wines
Le Marie Sant Agostino Arneis 2023 $23 - There is very little Arneis in the Pinerolese, and it is only made by Le Marie because they have a wonderful 30+ year old vineyard that gives extraordinary fruit. Lemon, lime, yellow pepper and spiced pear. A lovely textured, refreshing and delicate.
Reverdito Barolo 2019 $39 - In my opinion, Reverditio makes one the best Barolo's under $40 and the 2019 no exception. Garnet red with orange highlights, bouquet of woodland and aromatic herbs, slightly spicy. Full and balanced on the palate, with fine complex tannins.
Ca’ del Baio 2021 Barbaresco ‘Vallegrande' $46 - Here's a Decanter review of this wine: Bright cherry fruit expression, velvety and full-bodied with great balance. It has a firm structure and is well packed with fruit. Elegant wine with great refinement and a long licorice and slightly chocolatey aftertaste. Drink or hold. 95pts!