In the northwest of Italy, nestled up near the French border, the breathtaking region of Piedmont sits mysteriously shrouded in fog. Occasionally it lifts to reveal the patchwork of vineyards covering one stunning hillside after another. This is my idea of heaven. Besides eating and drinking, I am not sure what else there is to do. Here, Italy's obsession with food and wine reaches a fever pitch.
Autumn is the time to visit. White truffles are in season, the scent of fermenting grapes fills the air, and equally intoxicating aromas of chocolate waft from the nearby Ferraro Rocher factory. Unfortunately, as far as I'm aware, there isn't an app yet that captures smells. However, you can simply pour self a glass of Nebbiolo (Piedmont's flagship grape) to experience the seductive fragrances of the region.
Tar and roses are just a couple of the haunting aromas associated with Nebbiolo, yet this grape reveals its charms slowly. Typically dominated by high acid and tannin, its firm grip may assault the palate at first. Time in the cellar and/or food will soften the blows. The greatest (and most expensive) expressions of Nebbiolo hail from the two subregions of Barolo and Barbaresco. More affordable offerings can be found among wines labeled Langhe Nebbiolo. While not as complex or concentrated as the former, they provide appetizing examples of the grape.
Piedmont is a treasure trove of other indigenous grape varieties that fall more into the everyday drinking category. Barbera is juicy and lively without the mouth drying tannin of Nebbiolo. Dolcetto is more exuberantly fruity with lower acidity yet slightly sneaky tannin. Whichever of Piedmont's characterful wines you are tempted to try, remember they are best appreciated with food. Consider it an excuse to eat, if you needed one.
2012 Ricossa • Barbera d'Asti • $15.99 BC Liquor Stores
Great value staple! Juicy red cherry, bright and refreshing. I love this with Chinese BBQ duck.
2012 Massolino • Dolcetto d’Alba • $27.99 BC Liquor Stores
Light but luscious. Fragrant violet aromas with blackberry and licorice notes on the palate. Pizza please!
2012 Produttori del Barbaresco • Langhe Nebbiolo • $28.95 BC Liquor Stores
A seductive mix of roses and truffles. Enjoy this medium weight gem with tagliatelle tossed with butter, sage, and mushrooms.
2012 Gatto Pierfrancesco • Ruchė di Castagnole Monferrato • $29.99 BC Liquor Stores
Ruchė is yet another grape native to Piedmont and a truly unique red. Heady floral aromas with flavours of succulent raspberry and fleshy peach. Try it out with cheese and charcuterie.
2009 Fontanafredda • Serralunga d'Alba, Barolo • $44.99 BC Liquor Stores
Barolo is never a cheap option and this represents the entry level end of the spectrum. But what a way to start! Full and firm with savoury spice and earth. Braising beef? Perfect!
