Langhe

The region is particularly interesting from the perspective of wine tourism because they make wine like this nowhere else in the world. The difficult but noble nebbiolo grape is used in Langhe to make two of the best wines in the world, Barbaresco and Barolo, "the king of wines and the wine of kings". There have been attempts to export the grape, but so far the resulting wine has failed to reach the quality of the nebbiolo wines of Langhe.
Other interesting red wines include barbera and the simpler dolcetto. White wines are not as famous, but among others arneis and chardonnay are produced. There are also unusual local varieties such as freisa, used to make a lightly sparkling red wine, and grignolino. The moscato grape is used to make above all a low-alcohol dessert wine.

There are few important sights. But as the region is hilly, it offers some great views. Good places to admire them are La Morra and the castle in Grinzane Cavour (housing the regional wine cellar and a restaurant).

If you are really interested in wine, visit a producer for a tour and a tasting. Like elsewhere, visiting wineries in the Langhe is like visiting a working farm. It is a good idea to call ahead before you show up, but it may be possible to taste wine without an appointment at some wineries.

• Pio Cesare Azienda Agricola

  phone: +39 0173 440386
  address: Via Cesare Balbo 6, Alba

• Azienda Agricola Vigna Rionda (Massolino)

  phone: +39 0173 613138
  address: Piazza Cappellano 8, Serralunga d'Alba

• La Spinetta

  phone: +39 0173 262291
  address: Via Carzello 1, Grinzane Cavour
  A modern producer famous for its Pin blend and its Barolo.

• Cavallotto Fratelli

  phone: +39 017362814
  address: Via Alba-Monforte, Bricco Boschis, Castiglione Falletto
  Many classic Langhe wines made in a traditional style: Barolo, Barbera and Dolcetto among others. Unique in that they have all the vines planted in one place, resulting in a beautiful vista.