PIEMONTISSIMO READING
Great Piemonte White Wines
Discover the Elegance Beyond Reds
When wine lovers think of Piemonte, their minds often wander to the powerful reds; Barolo, Barbaresco, Nebbiolo and Barbera. But tucked away among the famed nebbiolo and barbera vineyards are hidden gems: the expressive, crisp, and aromatic white wines of Piemonte. From historic varietals rediscovered in recent decades to elegant expressions of international grapes, Piemonte’s white wines offer a refreshing counterbalance to its muscular reds. Here’s a closer look at the standout white wines of the region, and why they deserve a place on your table.
Timorasso: The White Barolo of the Colli Tortonesi
Timorasso is perhaps the most exciting revival story in Piemonte’s modern wine history. Once nearly extinct, this ancient grape from the Colli Tortonesi (Tortona Hills) was championed back into production in the 1980s by winemaker Walter Massa. Today, it’s earning global recognition for its complexity, aging potential, and distinctive mineral structure.
Tasting Notes: Rich and structured with notes of ripe pear, chamomile, flint, and honey as it ages. Its vibrant acidity and long finish make it a serious food wine.
Food Pairings: Truffle risotto, aged cheeses, creamy pasta dishes, and roasted poultry.
Try this if you like: White Burgundy, aged Riesling, or Chenin Blanc.
Gavi DOCG (Cortese): The Queen of Southern Piemonte
Often referred to simply as “Gavi,” this wine is made from the Cortese grape and originates from the town of the same name in the province of Alessandria. Recognized with DOCG status, Gavi is a staple of Piemonte’s white wine scene and a favorite for summer sipping.
Tasting Notes: Crisp and delicate with citrus, green apple, and floral aromas. Typically light-bodied, but some expressions show depth and minerality from older vines or extended lees contact.
Food Pairings: Perfect with seafood, sushi, light salads, and antipasti.
Try this if you like: Pinot Grigio, Albariño, or Sauvignon Blanc.
Pro Tip: Look for “Gavi di Gavi” to enjoy bottles produced in the commune of Gavi itself, the heart of the appellation.
Arneis: The Little Rascal That Captivates
“Arneis” means “little rascal” in the local dialect—a name earned due to the grape’s tricky nature in the vineyard. But when handled with care, Arneis produces wonderfully aromatic wines with a soft, rounded profile. It’s most famously grown in the Roero area, just across the Tanaro River from Barolo.
Tasting Notes: White peach, pear, almonds, and herbs, with a silky mouthfeel and gentle acidity.
Food Pairings: Arneis pairs beautifully with creamy pasta, chicken, and even mildly spiced dishes like Thai curry.
Try this if you like: Viognier, Soave, or Pinot Bianco.
Chardonnay: A Global Grape with Piemonte Character
While Chardonnay is not native to Piemonte, it’s been cultivated here for decades, especially in cooler, higher elevation sites such as Alta Langa. Winemakers craft both still and sparkling versions, often with an Italian twist that emphasizes freshness and minerality over heavy oak or butter.
Tasting Notes: Expect citrus, stone fruits, and floral notes in unoaked versions; those aged in barrel may show hazelnut, toast, and cream.
Food Pairings: Smoked salmon, poultry, white truffle dishes, and aged cheeses.
Try this if you like: Chablis, Blanc de Blancs Champagne, or Sonoma Coast Chardonnay.
Fun Fact: Alta Langa DOCG sparkling wines often use Chardonnay (and Pinot Nero), made in the traditional method with long bottle aging.
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Nascetta: Piemonte’s Noble Native
Nascetta (sometimes spelled “Nas-cëtta”) is an indigenous white variety once nearly forgotten. It’s grown primarily in the Langhe, especially around Novello. In recent years, it has found a resurgence, earning its own DOC designation.
Tasting Notes: A complex profile with aromas of citrus, wild herbs, tropical fruit, and subtle spice. With age, it develops honeyed and waxy notes akin to Riesling or Chenin Blanc.
Food Pairings: Grilled vegetables, rabbit in white wine, anchovy-based sauces like bagna càuda.
Try this if you like: Dry Riesling, Vermentino, or mature white Rhône blends.
Notable Producers: Elvio Cogno and Rivetto have helped re-establish Nascetta as a white wine to watch.
Moscato d’Asti: Piemonte’s Dolce Sweetheart
No list of Piemonte whites would be complete without mentioning Moscato, the region’s joyfully aromatic, low-alcohol sparkling wine. Made from Moscato Bianco grapes in the Asti area, it’s often underestimated but remarkably well-crafted.
Tasting Notes: Lightly sparkling, intensely aromatic, with notes of peach, orange blossom, honey, and tropical fruits. Always sweet, but with enough acidity to remain fresh and balanced.
Food Pairings: Fruit-based desserts, hazelnut cake, blue cheese, or as an aperitif on a hot summer day.
Try this if you like: Prosecco (Extra Dry or Dry), sweet Muscat, or German Kabinett Riesling.
Best Producers: Look for Vietti, Saracco, La Spinetta, or Paolo Saracco for high-quality examples.
Why Piemonte Whites Deserve the Spotlight
While red wines dominate the reputation of Piemonte, its white wines offer extraordinary diversity—from zesty and fresh to bold and age-worthy. These whites are:
Versatile: Ideal for both casual drinking and refined cuisine.
Underrated: Offering excellent value compared to more famous white wine regions.
Authentic: Many are made from native grapes that reflect Piemonte’s unique terroir.
Planning Your Piemonte White Wine Tour
If you’re traveling through Piemonte, consider these stops:
Tortona Hills for Timorasso.
Gavi and Novi Ligure for Cortese.
Roero and Langhe for Arneis and Nascetta.
Alta Langa for Chardonnay-based spumante.
Asti region for the finest Moscato d’Asti.
Don’t hesitate to visit enotecas and wine bars like Zero in Bra, Petricore in Alba, and Cichin in Alba – they often stock rare white wines you won’t find abroad. For expert advice and spectacular wine tours, reach out to Pier and Chiara at One on the hill.
Conclusion: A Fresh Take on Piemonte
Great white wines from Piemonte are no longer a secret. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply love exploring new flavors, the region’s whites offer incredible variety and finesse. So next time you’re pouring a glass, look beyond Barolo, and raise a toast to the whites of Piemonte.
