Frequently Asked Questions about Langhe

What are the Langhe famous for?
The Langhe, located in Piedmont in northwestern Italy, are famous for their breathtaking hilly landscapes, picturesque villages, and, above all, for their excellent wine and food production.

What does Langhe mean?
The term "Langhe" derives from the Latin "linguae", meaning "tongues" or "tongues of land", likely referring to the narrow elongated hills that characterize this region.

What wine is produced in the Langhe?
In the Langhe, various high-quality wines are produced, the most famous being Barolo and Barbaresco, both made from the Nebbiolo grape. Other notable wines include Dolcetto, Barbera, and Moscato d'Asti.

Where is Barolo produced?
Barolo is produced exclusively in the Langhe, in a specific area that includes 11 municipalities, including Barolo, La Morra, Monforte d'Alba, and Serralunga d'Alba. These territories are renowned for their microclimate and soil particularly suited for Nebbiolo cultivation.

What is the difference between Barolo and Barbaresco?
The main difference between Barolo and Barbaresco, while both wines are made from Nebbiolo, lies in the production regulations and terroir. Barolo requires a longer aging period (at least 38 months, of which 18 in wood), compared to Barbaresco (at least 24 months, of which 9 in wood). The terroir of the two areas gives the wines different characteristics: Barolo tends to be more robust and tannic, while Barbaresco is generally more elegant and less structured.

How does Dolcetto d'Alba differ from other wines of the Langhe, and what are its ideal pairings?
Dolcetto d'Alba DOC is a red wine produced exclusively from the Dolcetto grape and is traditionally the most consumed table wine in the Langhe. Unlike Barolo and Barbaresco, which are more structured and long-lived, Dolcetto d'Alba is generally rounder, lighter, and softer, with a ruby red color tending towards violet and a pleasant, winey aroma. It is ideal for pairing with vegetable and cold cuts appetizers, legume soups, risottos, porcini ravioli, and veal and beef dishes. Its history is rooted in the peasant life of Piedmont, having been an important trading item with Liguria for centuries.

What is the best time to visit the Langhe and why?
The best time to visit the Langhe depends on the visitor's preferences. Spring is ideal for witnessing the awakening of nature, with vineyards turning green and mild temperatures. Autumn is the most fascinating and popular season, thanks to the foliage that transforms the landscapes into a work of art, with vineyards taking on distinctive colors depending on the grape variety (yellow for Nebbiolo, bright red for Dolcetto, violet for Barbera). During this time, the White Truffle Fair of Alba takes place, offering the opportunity to taste local specialties. Winter also has its charm, with snowy and silent landscapes, perfect for tasting fine wines like Barolo and Barbaresco.