Langhe

Characteristic

Terroir

Langhe region is located in the southern part of Piedmont, close to the Maritime Alps and the Ligurian Apennines.

The name, of Celtic origin, means “strips of land” and refers to the elongated hills, often with very steep sides, arranged so as to run parallel to each other to form many deep and narrow valleys. The Langa region is one of the most generous regions in the world for the quality and variety of wine production.
The roots of this exceptionality are to be found in the particular geographical location, in the suitable climate and in the rich subsoil that distinguish these hilly areas and make them an environment with a very abundant biodiversity.

Clime

Climate is one of three contributors – along with soil and man’s work – determining the ultimate result we can taste in the glass.

The continental climate we can find in the Langhe region has some distinctive characteristics that make this area unique.

The Apennines protect the hills from currents of air arriving from the sea. Masses of air from the Mediterranean meet those coming down off the Alps and prevent cold currents arriving from the north from hitting the hills. Natural fluctuations in climate are frequent and can be appreciated in the glass: every vintage is different, in fact, producing endless variety in flavours and perfumes.

The various micro-climates created by the hills and valleys of the Langa influenced by the continental climate of the entire area, stimulates particularly fine and aromatic nuances in the wines.

The Barolo area has medium temperatures, as it’s protected from the currents but also influenced by the Alps and the warm winds rising from the Tanaro valley.

The area around Barbaresco is more uniform, has warmer temperatures and less abundant rainfall. The narrow hills contribute to make the area windier than the others.

Grapes

Wines from the Langhe are immediately recognisable in a world context because they so completely represent their terroir: that is, the combination of a specific geological area and its particular climate. Single varietals are used to make wines that are vinified with traditional methods and are thus given every chance to express their personalities.

South Piedmont’s great classics – Nebbiolo, Barbera, Dolcetto and Moscato – have been an essential part of local agricultural economy for many years. Nebbiolo is the most important grape that is used to produce Barolo DOCG and Barbaresco DOCG, but also Langhe DOC Nebbiolo.

Sources: https://www.langhevini.it/en/