Tucked into the rolling hills of northern Italy's Piedmont region, the Langhe is a place where time slows down and the air is scented with the promise of great wine. Known for producing some of Italy’s most iconic wines, including Barolo and Barbaresco, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a paradise for wine lovers. The Langhe isn't just about sipping—it’s about connecting with the land, its people, and centuries-old traditions.
If you're dreaming of vineyard-covered hills, medieval villages, and glasses filled with character, here are some standout wineries in the Langhe that should be on every oenophile’s radar.
1. Gaja – Barbaresco Royalty
Located in the village of Barbaresco, Gaja is a legendary name in Italian winemaking. Founded in 1859, the estate has become a symbol of quality and innovation. Under the leadership of Angelo Gaja, the winery has elevated Barbaresco to international prestige. A visit here is like stepping into a living history of modern Italian wine.
What to Try: Barbaresco DOCG, Costa Russi, Sori Tildin
2. Pio Cesare – Classic Elegance in Alba
In the heart of Alba, Pio Cesare has been crafting elegant wines for over 140 years. The winery's cellars are built into ancient Roman walls beneath the town, creating a unique atmosphere for tastings. Their Barolo and Barbaresco are benchmarks for traditional Piedmontese winemaking.
What to Try: Barolo DOCG, Barbaresco DOCG, Langhe Nebbiolo
3. Marchesi di Barolo – A Noble Legacy
With a castle view and a noble history, Marchesi di Barolo sits at the foot of the historic village of Barolo. It was here that the wine we now know as Barolo first took shape in the 19th century. Their cellar tour includes a journey through time and an unforgettable tasting lineup.
What to Try: Barolo Cannubi, Barbera d’Alba, Gavi di Gavi
4. Vietti – Art Meets Terroir
Vietti, in Castiglione Falletto, blends art and winemaking with flair. Known for their artist-designed labels and single-vineyard Barolos, Vietti has a cult following. The family’s commitment to terroir shines through in every bottle.
What to Try: Barolo Rocche di Castiglione, Arneis, Dolcetto d’Alba
5. Elvio Cogno – The Hidden Gem
Perched on the Ravera hill in Novello, Elvio Cogno is one of the Langhe’s best-kept secrets. The estate’s wines strike a perfect balance between innovation and tradition. Their Barolo Ravera is consistently ranked among the best.
What to Try: Barolo Ravera, Nascetta (a rare local white), Barbera Pre-Phylloxera
- Beyond the Glass: What to Do in the Langhe -
Wine tasting is only the beginning. The Langhe offers:
Truffle hunting in Alba (especially in fall)
Michelin-starred restaurants showcasing local cuisine (try tajarin pasta and vitello tonnato)
Scenic drives and bike tours through vineyards and hilltop villages like La Morra and Monforte d'Alba
Final Sip
The Langhe invites you to slow down and savor life. Its wineries are more than places to taste wine—they’re gateways to a culture rooted in land, family, and timeless beauty.
So pour yourself a glass of Nebbiolo and start planning your trip. The Langhe is waiting.
