Piedmont, in northwest Italy at the foot of the Alps, is one of the country's two great wine regions. It is the home of Nebbiolo (Barolo, Barbaresco), but also juicy Barbera, soft Dolcetto, the aromatic white Arneis and Cortese (Gavi), and sweet, frothy Moscato d'Asti. A land of small growers, fog-shrouded hills, truffles and serious, terroir-driven wines, it rewards the curious.
Structure
| Body | Piedmont prizes native grapes and single-vineyard expression. Nebbiolo makes its most profound, age-worthy reds; Barbera and Dolcetto its everyday drinking; the whites and sparkling Moscato round out a remarkably complete portfolio. The cuisine — truffles, braises, hazelnuts — is built around these wines. |
|---|---|
| Acidity | High across most styles. |
| Tannin | Very high in Nebbiolo; low in Barbera and Dolcetto. |
| Finish | From bright and juicy (Barbera) to long and tannic (Nebbiolo). |
| Aroma | Tar, rose, cherry (Nebbiolo); plum, herbs (Barbera); peach, grape (Moscato). |
Serving: 16–18°C reds; 8–12°C whites and Moscato. · Decanting: 1–2 hours for young Barolo and Barbaresco.
Piedmont drinking window
| Tier | Drinking window |
|---|---|
| Dolcetto / Barbera | Drink within 1–5 years. |
| Barbaresco | Best 6–20 years. |
| Barolo | 10–40 years. |
| Vintage | Drinking window |
|---|---|
| 2016 | Hold the Nebbiolos; superb. |
| 2019 | Cellar to 2040. |
| 2021 | Drink the everyday wines now. |
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Piedmont — questions answered
What is Piedmont best known for?
Nebbiolo — the grape behind Barolo and Barbaresco — plus Barbera, Dolcetto, Gavi and sweet Moscato d'Asti.
What is the difference between Piedmont's red grapes?
Nebbiolo is tannic and age-worthy; Barbera is high-acid and juicy; Dolcetto is soft and easygoing for everyday drinking.
Why is Piedmont linked with truffles?
The Langhe and Alba are famous for white truffles, whose earthy aromas pair sublimely with Nebbiolo's perfume.
What food pairs with Piedmont wines?
Braised beef, mushroom and truffle dishes with Nebbiolo; pasta and roast pork with Barbera and Dolcetto.