THE REGIONS MONFERRATO AND LANGHE

You can find the gentle hills of Monferrato and Langhe in the north-western corner of Italy, between the Alps and the Riviera, in the area of Piedmont that lies south of the river Po.

It is largely a rural area, yet the furthest of the three cities of Genoa, Milan and Turin is little more than an hour’s drive away. Centre of the Monferrato region is Asti, a town brimming with history as far back as Roman times.

The mediaeval setting of the old town centre is complemented by fine buildings from the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. This elegant city of gardens, museums and shady arcaded streets is important as the centre of a world-famous wine region. The high quality of its wines, among which are included Grignolino, Freisa, Malvasia, Brachetto, and varieties of Barbera and Moscato has led to the awarding of d.o.c. status to as many as 11 different types of wine, and to the opening of prestigious enotecas (wine galleries) and wine stores which have become a point of reference for connoisseurs and gourmets.

The nearby little-known towns of Nizza Monferato, Canelli and Santa Stefano Belbo are the home of Gancia, Riccadonna, Martini and Cinzano.