Roero Unveiled: A Journey Beyond the Tanaro
In the heart of Piedmont, across the Tanaro River from the renowned Langhe, lies the captivating land of Roero. Over the past decade, Roero has stepped out of its neighbor’s shadow, emerging as a region brimming with passion and authentic character. Its rugged, free-spirited, and wild nature draws in wine lovers and curious travelers, as Roero’s wines increasingly appear on tables around the world.
The area’s identity is rooted in picturesque villages, storied castles, and striking churches, all nestled in landscapes woven from vineyards, orchards, and lush forests. For a true taste of Roero’s natural magic, travel from Pocapaglia to Montà and on to Cisterna d’Asti, where the legendary Rocche del Roero rise dramatically. Here, fractured terrain, towering cliffs, and evolving sandy pinnacles—shaped by the slow force of erosion—create a stunning, ever-changing vista.
This region is famed for its alternating basins and hollows filled with vibrant, untouched vegetation, creating the perfect habitat for the prized white truffle of Alba. Roero’s wild beauty and unique environment make every visit a sensory adventure.
Ancient Viticulture and Unique Soils: Roero’s Secret
On the hills rising from the Tanaro’s left bank, the Roero wine region traces its roots back to the 14th century. Unlike the celebrated Barolo and Barbaresco areas, Roero boasts a distinct history and geology. Its soils, rich in sand, limestone, sandstone, and clay, are infused with potassium, calcium, and phosphorus—a blend that gives life to wines with vibrant minerality and character.
Local winemaking traditions, once overlooked, have always been treasured by Roero’s noble and bourgeois families. The region’s geologically younger land, as evidenced by marine fossils, imparts a unique personality to its wines.
The area’s soft sandy soils are ideal for white grape varieties such as Arneis and Favorita, while the gentle slopes and mild climate nurture exceptional reds like Nebbiolo, Barbera, and Dolcetto.
Centuries-old expertise and a profound respect for the land ensure that every bottle from Roero is a true reflection of its remarkable terroir.
Signature Wines of Roero: A Symphony of Flavors
Two wines symbolize Roero’s vibrant soul: Roero DOCG and Roero Arneis DOCG. Each one brings the region’s character to life in your glass.
Roero Arneis DOCG has undergone a true renaissance. Once little known—even in Piedmont—this white wine has quickly achieved worldwide acclaim. Modern Arneis boasts a brilliant straw-yellow hue, fresh and delicate aromas with notes of wildflowers and orchard fruits, and a distinctive salty, dry finish. Its structure and complexity shine when paired with dishes like seafood crudo, seafood risotto, or grilled vegetables.
Roero DOCG, made predominantly from Nebbiolo, is lighter in color and body than its Langhe counterparts. The sandy soils lend it a softer, fruit-forward, and lively character, with classic aromas of violet, raspberry, and peach. Roero DOCG is delightfully drinkable and versatile, pairing beautifully with tajarin with truffle, braised meats, or a rustic cheese board.
A dynamic new generation of winemakers is driving Roero’s continued success, infusing each vintage with energy, innovation, and a deep connection to the land.
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