In the Alta Langa, the region where the Borgo is located, Dolcetto and the revived Alta Langa Spumante Metodo Classico are primarily produced: a sparkling wine with the same tradition and finesse as Champagne.

 

The Grape Varieties of the Langhe

​

Nebbiolo – the noble grape of Piedmont

Nebbiolo is the pride of the Langhe and forms the basis for the famous Barolo and Barbaresco. It is a late-ripening grape that craves warmth during the day and coolness at night.

• Flavor Profile: Powerful, complex, high tannins

• Aromas: Roses, violets, tar, red fruit, herbs

• Known for: Barolo, Barbaresco, Langhe Nebbiolo

• A wine to take your time with – literally, because Nebbiolo needs air to fully come alive.

​

Barbera – smooth, fresh, and lively

North of the Langhe, in the Monferrato, Barbera is the most important grape. But it is also cultivated with great care in the Langhe. Barbera is more accessible than Nebbiolo and is sometimes reminiscent of Merlot in style.

• Flavor profile: soft tannins, fresh acidity

• Aromas: cherries, berries, herbs

• Known for: Barbera d’Alba, Barbera d’Asti

• An ideal wine for a relaxed lunch or a hearty pasta dish.

 

Dolcetto – the local favorite

Dolcetto is the grape of the Alta Langa and is cherished by many small winegrowers. Despite its name ("little sweet"), the wine is not sweet at all, but rather dry and robust.

• Flavor profile: full, round, soft tannins

• Aromas: black cherry, plum, almond

• Known for: Dolcetto d’Alba, Dolcetto di Dogliani

• A delicious, easy-drinking wine often found in local trattorias.

Big names and small gems

Besides world-famous wineries, you'll find many small, authentic wineries in the Langhe region who craft their wines with passion and craftsmanship. You'll often receive a warm welcome, get a personal tour, and taste wines with a story. It's not only enjoyable but also meaningful to support these small wineries by taking home a few bottles.

The vendemmia – the harvest season

Curious about how wine is truly made? The vendemmia, the grape harvest, usually begins in early September and runs until October.

• The exact timing depends on the grape, the microclimate, and the weather.

• Tractors laden with grapes drive back and forth across the hills.

• Larger wineries sometimes harvest by machine, but many small and organic winemakers still pick by hand.

Want to experience it yourself? There are certainly opportunities to spend a day helping with the harvest – an unforgettable experience.

Recommended tours near the Borgo

Within a 20-minute drive of the Borgo are two favorite wineries where you can enjoy a tasting. One charges a small fee, while the other offers free admission with the purchase of a few bottles.

​​

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Agri Barberis

• 9 kilometers of historic terraces with dry stone walls, constructed in the late 19th century

• Perfect location for even ripening

• Specialties: Dolcetto, Barbera, and a surprising Passe-Partout Brut

Patrone Vini

• Authentic wines from officially recognized Slow Food Dolcetto

• Also available: Barbera, a fantastic Nebbiolo, beautiful Chardonnays, and a crisp Langhe Bianco

• Their Spumante Brut Metodo Classico is perhaps the house's most beloved wine

Wine refrigerator at the Borgo

In the Borgo's outdoor kitchen, you'll find a special wine refrigerator with space for 16 bottles. Ideal when you've been out and about for a day and want to keep your new finds chilled—or simply can't wait for the 5:00 PM church bells to chime: the starting signal for the aperitif.