The Wines of Piemonte

The Italian region of Piemonte is known for its Barolo and Barbaresco wines, but there is much more to explore beyond these famous denominations. In The Wines of Piemonte, expert wine educator David Way encourages readers to discover the region's lesser-known treasures, including native varieties such as Brachetto, Freisa, and Grignolino. The book provides an overview of the history, geography, and climate of the region, as well as an exploration of the denominations and producers. With color photos and regional maps, it is a valuable resource for anyone looking to enhance their enjoyment of Piemonte's wines.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 410 pages
Publication date: 06 February 2024
Publisher: ACADEMIE DU VIN LIBRARY LIMITED

The Italian region of Piemonte is rightly famed for the denominations of Barolo and Barbaresco. The area of vineyard given over to Nebbiolo, the sole grape variety of both DOCGs, has increased dramatically in the last half century (as plantings of other varieties have fallen). However, there is much to enjoy beyond the headline wines of the region. With a vast array of local varieties at the disposal of winemakers, no fewer than 60 denominations and a range of wine styles, Piemonte is a wine explorer's dream.

In The Wines of Piemonte, expert wine educator David Way challenges readers to deepen their understanding of the Piemontese wines they already love, such as Barolo and Barbaresco, and experience more of Piemontes lesser-known treasures. He begins by setting the wines in their context, giving an outline of the history, geography, and climate of the region. He then introduces readers to the native varieties that make the distinctive wines in this region – including less familiar grapes such as Brachetto, Freisa, and Grignolino. After a brief discussion of Italian wine law, he leads us in an exploration of the denominations themselves with a selection of producers.

We begin in the Langhe and Roero, where we find denominations centred on the varieties of Nebbiolo, Dolcetto, Barbera, and Arneis. The gentle hills of Monferrato are Barbera heartland but also yield wines made from interesting local varieties. Heading west, we visit the valleys of the western Alps, where producers are smaller and the varieties they grow more obscure. After exploring Colli Tortonesi and the white wines of its neighbour, Gavi, in the east, we look to the cooler regions of northern Piemonte. Finally, we are treated to Piemontes sparkling wines, made in a range of styles. Complete with colour photos.

Weight: 626g
Dimension: 234 x 156 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781913141448