Katerina Karamfylidou #166
Discovering the Jewel of Italy: Piedmont
Greek journalist Katerina Karamfylidou embarked on an unforgettable journey through the renowned wine roads of Piedmont, Italy, exploring the origins of the world-famous Asti wines. Through her vivid storytelling on Parallaximag.gr and Drinks.ua, she shared her deep impressions of this iconic wine region.
Nestled between Liguria, Emilia-Romagna, the Po Valley, and the mountainous regions of Switzerland and France, Piedmont is a true gem in Italy’s winemaking landscape. This region is a dream destination for wine and travel journalists, offering breathtaking landscapes and an unparalleled vinous heritage. While there are countless reasons to visit Piedmont, the wines of Asti stand as one of its most celebrated treasures.
Renowned for its diverse terroir, Piedmont’s unique climatic conditions – cool nights, misty mornings, and sunny days – create the perfect environment for exceptional winemaking. The region is famed for both its sparkling and still wines, ranging from fresh and vibrant to complex and aged expressions. At the foothills of the Alps and stretching toward the Ligurian Sea, its rolling green vineyards flourish in limestone-rich soils, offering ideal conditions for grape cultivation.
A Historic Winemaking Tradition
Piedmont is internationally recognized for its prestigious red wines, particularly Nebbiolo and Barbaresco, but it also boasts another exceptional treasure – Moscato d’Asti. The Moscato Bianco grape, cultivated in Piedmont for over a millennium, thrives in the Asti, Cuneo, and Alessandria regions. Giovanni Battista Croce, a Milanese jeweler of the 17th century, played a pivotal role in developing Moscato d’Asti, perfecting a low-alcohol wine that retained the must’s natural sweetness and aromatic richness. In 1993, Asti Spumante and Moscato d’Asti were granted DOCG status, solidifying their place among Italy’s most esteemed wines. Today, the hallmark of Asti wines is their delicate floral and fruity notes, gentle bubbles, and balanced sweetness, making them a favorite worldwide.
The Canelli Underground Cellars – A UNESCO Heritage Site
One of the most awe-inspiring experiences in Piedmont is visiting the underground wine cathedrals of Canelli. These historic cellars, with their labyrinthine corridors carved into the hills, serve as aging chambers for Asti’s finest wines. Their architectural and cultural significance has earned them UNESCO World Heritage status, further highlighting Piedmont’s profound contribution to the global wine scene.
Gastronomy and Wine: A Perfect Pairing
Beyond the vineyards and wineries, Piedmont’s picturesque villages, historical landmarks, and culinary excellence create an unparalleled gastronomic journey.
The region’s trattorias and fine dining establishments boast exquisite wine lists that perfectly complement traditional dishes such as truffle-infused pasta, artisan cheeses, and succulent veal. Whether indulging in a rustic polenta dish or a gourmet casserole, every meal is elevated by a carefully selected local wine.
The Essence of Asti Wines
Asti Spumante DOCG, made exclusively from 100% Moscato Bianco, is a sparkling wine celebrated for its aromatic complexity, balanced sweetness, and moderate alcohol content (6-12%). It serves as an elegant aperitif and pairs beautifully with seafood, fresh cheeses, and delicate desserts. Each year, approximately 60 million bottles are produced. Moscato d’Asti DOCG offers a more delicate expression, with fragrant floral notes, hints of ripe fruit, and a light effervescence. With an alcohol content of 4.5-6.5%, this wine is ideal as a refreshing aperitif or as a delightful companion to desserts. The production volume reaches 40 million bottles annually.
Piedmont – A Must-Visit for Wine Enthusiasts
From the scenic vineyard-covered hills to the underground cellars of Canelli, Katerina Karamfylidou’s journey through Piedmont was an ode to the region’s rich winemaking heritage. This Italian paradise continues to captivate wine lovers, offering unforgettable experiences, world-class wines, and a deep connection to tradition and innovation.
Through her exploration of Piedmont’s wine roads, Katerina has brought to light the brilliance of this region, inspiring others to embark on their own vinous adventures and discover the magic of Asti wines.
