Heart and Soul of Piedmontese Wine
Anyone who loves wine has heard of the Langhe, a uniquely charming region that is home to some of Italy’s greatest wines. Located in southern Piedmont, the Langhe is a mosaic of rolling hills, vineyards, and historic villages that tell a story of tradition, passion, and quality. Let’s explore the characteristics of this extraordinary land together.
Where Are the Langhe Located?
The Langhe stretch across the provinces of Cuneo and Asti, nestled between Monferrato and Roero. This hilly territory is crossed by the Tanaro River and is divided into Alta Langa and Bassa Langa:
- Alta Langa: Characterized by higher altitudes and less vineyard-friendly terrain, this area is known for hazelnut and cheese production.
- Bassa Langa: The beating heart of Piedmontese viticulture, where some of the world’s most prestigious wines, such as Barolo and Barbaresco, are produced.
A Land Made for Viticulture
The Langhe offer an ideal microclimate for vine cultivation: cold winters, hot summers, and significant temperature variations between day and night allow for optimal grape ripening. The clay and limestone soils give the wines great structure and aromatic complexity.
Among the most representative grape varieties, we find:
- Nebbiolo: The undisputed star, used to produce Barolo and Barbaresco.
- Dolcetto: A fresh and fruity red wine, perfect for everyday consumption.
- Barbera: Versatile and full-bodied, with high acidity that makes it suitable for aging.
History and Tradition
The Langhe have a millennia-old history. The area was already known for winemaking during the Roman era, but it was in the 19th century that Langhe wines gained international prestige. Thanks to the efforts of historical figures like Camillo Benso, Count of Cavour, and the renowned enologist Louis Oudart, Barolo became the “king of wines and the wine of kings.”
Today, the Langhe have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2014, recognized for their unique viticultural landscape and extraordinary wine culture.
Curiosities About the Langhe
- The Legend of Barolo: It is said that the Marchioness of Barolo, Giulia Colbert, helped transform Nebbiolo into a great dry and structured wine by aging it in wooden barrels.
- Alba White Truffles: In addition to wine, the Langhe are famous for the prized white truffle, the star of the renowned Alba Truffle Fair.
- Villages and Castles: From Barolo to La Morra, passing through Monforte d’Alba, each village is a little gem rich in history and breathtaking views.
Conclusion
The Langhe represent the soul of Piedmontese wine, a land where tradition and innovation come together to create wines of excellence. If you want to discover the best wines from this extraordinary region, visit our wine shop: we will guide you on a journey through the authentic flavors of the Langhe!