Alta Langa is not just a hub for some of Italy’s most remarkable sparkling wines; it is a picturesque wine region that deserves a spot on every wine lover’s itinerary when exploring Italy’s finest vinous destinations.

In this article, we will dive into the unique geography, fascinating history, and outstanding sparkling wines that make Alta Langa truly special. Imagine a landscape of rolling hills, terraced vineyards, and a winemaking tradition that dates back centuries, where each bottle tells a story of dedication and mastery. Join us as we explore the allure of Alta Langa, one of Italy’s most prestigious regions for sparkling wine.

If you're already familiar with the Alta Langa region and its exceptional wines, feel free to skip this guide and start your search for Alta Langa's experiences available on winedering.com.

The Alta Langa region, a hidden gem within the picturesque hills of Piedmont, Italy, is renowned for its exceptional sparkling wines and enchanting landscapes. Located primarily in the provinces of Cuneo, Asti, and Alessandria, Alta Langa stretches across a dramatic terrain nestled between the imposing Maritime Alps and the Ligurian Apennines. Its name reflects its elevated position—literally "High Langa"—distinguishing it from the neighboring Langhe with its higher altitudes and steeper, more rugged slopes.

The terrain here is anything but uniform, with a stunning patchwork of vineyards that follow the natural contours of the hills. The microclimates vary dramatically, influenced by the cool, crisp air descending from the Alps and the warmer, more humid currents from the nearby Ligurian coast. This diversity in climate and altitude allows for a slow, balanced ripening process, which gives the grapes their unique aromatic profile and complexity.

Alta Langa's sparkling wines, crafted using the traditional method, reflect the meticulous work of generations of winemakers. From hand-tended vineyards to careful aging in cellars, every bottle is a testament to the region's dedication to quality and tradition.

When planning a trip to Alta Langa you have different options:

Option 1: Alta Langa as a pre or post tour destination

Conveniently located near major airports like Milan and Genoa, Alta Langa is an ideal choice for a relaxing three-day pre or post tour during your Italian journey. Nestled in the scenic hills of southern Piedmont, Alta Langa offers a tranquil escape where you can unwind amidst breathtaking landscapes. Staying in one of the region's charming wine estates is the perfect way to rejuvenate after a long flight or a whirlwind tour of Italy, with serene views and top-tier sparkling wines enhancing your experience.

Option 2: Wine focused experience

For wine enthusiasts, a visit to both Alta Langa and Langhe offers the ultimate immersion into Piedmont’s world-class winemaking. While Alta Langa is celebrated for its exceptional sparkling wines made with the traditional Metodo Classico, Langhe is renowned for iconic red wines like Barolo, Barbaresco, and Dolcetto. This combination gives travelers the chance to explore the diversity of Piedmont's wine heritage—from the elegant bubbles of Alta Langa to the bold, structured reds of Langhe.

Autumn is a particularly special time to visit, as the region hosts the famous Alba White Truffle Fair (La Fiera del Tartufo d'Alba), attracting truffle lovers from around the world. Wine tastings paired with locally sourced truffles create an unparalleled culinary experience. Whether you’re savoring a glass of sparkling Alta Langa or a robust Barolo, this journey through both wine regions will be a highlight of your Italian trip.

In the southern part of the Piedmont region, nestled between the Ligurian Alps and the rolling hills of Langhe, lies Alta Langa, a hidden gem in the world of sparkling wine production. The area's natural borders include the Tanaro River to the west, the Bormida River to the east, and the scenic hills that stretch south toward Liguria, creating an ideal microclimate for cultivating grapes destined for the region's renowned Metodo Classico sparkling wines.

This territory, lesser-known compared to its neighbors Barolo and Barbaresco, finds its own distinctive expression through the cultivation of Pinot Nero and Chardonnay grapes. Alta Langa is one of the few regions in Italy where traditional sparkling wines are produced following strict guidelines similar to the French Champagne region. What sets Alta Langa apart is its altitude—vineyards here are often located at elevations above 250 meters, allowing the grapes to develop fresh, crisp acidity while preserving the complexity and minerality of the terroir.

Alta Langa DOCG: The Sparkling Crown

Alta Langa DOCG, established in 2011, celebrates the exceptional quality of the region’s sparkling wines, all produced using the Metodo Classico (known also as Champenoise method). Alta Langa’s winemakers follow the traditional method of second fermentation in the bottle, with wines required to age on the lees for a minimum of 30 months, ensuring complexity and elegance in each sip. These wines are typically dry, with lively acidity and a fine perlage, boasting aromas of citrus, white flowers, and hints of toasted bread, reflecting the painstaking care and time invested in their production.

The soils of Alta Langa—rich in limestone and clay, with sandy deposits—are instrumental in shaping the distinctive minerality and finesse of its wines. The high elevation, cool breezes, and abundant sunlight create perfect conditions for slow grape maturation, resulting in sparkling wines that are vibrant, refreshing, and able to age beautifully in the bottle.

Wines of Alta Langa: A Sparkling Heritage

While other parts of the Langhe region may be famous for their bold reds like Barolo and Barbaresco, Alta Langa is the crown jewel for sparkling wine lovers. Pinot Nero and Chardonnay are the stars here, and the region’s winemakers have perfected the art of crafting Metodo Classico sparkling wines that rival the world’s best. These wines are often produced in Brut, Extra Brut, or Pas Dosé styles, with their lively bubbles making them perfect companions for fine dining or celebratory moments.

Beyond the wines, Alta Langa’s beauty lies in its serene landscapes. The hills are dotted with charming medieval villages, ancient castles, and vast vineyards that stretch as far as the eye can see. Unlike the more frequented Langhe, Alta Langa offers a more tranquil, authentic experience for those looking to escape the crowds and dive deep into the heart of Piedmont’s wine country.

Discover Alta Langa Wine Experiences

Visiting Alta Langa offers a more intimate wine experience compared to the busier wine regions of Piedmont. Whether you’re tasting sparkling wines in a local cantina or enjoying a food-pairing experience in a rustic village, Alta Langa allows travelers to discover the traditional winemaking techniques of the region in a relaxed, picturesque setting. Local winemakers are passionate about their craft and are often eager to share the history and process behind their sparkling creations.

Whether you are captivated by the elegance of sparkling wines or drawn to the unspoiled beauty of the landscape, Alta Langa is a must-visit destination for wine lovers seeking something truly special in the heart of Piedmont.

Plan Your Alta Langa Sparkling Wine Experience

To sum up, Alta Langa is a sparkling wine paradise that showcases the potential of the Pinot Nero and Chardonnay grapes. With its elegant Metodo Classico wines and scenic landscapes, this region offers an unparalleled experience for those in search of exceptional wines and tranquil beauty, making it an unforgettable destination for any wine enthusiast.

The Alta Langa region is a treasure trove of culinary delights, known for its artisanal cheeses, seasonal produce, and exceptional traditional dishes that perfectly complement the sparkling wines of the area. This hidden gem of Piedmont offers an authentic food experience deeply intertwined with its wine culture, making it a paradise for gourmet travelers seeking a more intimate, off-the-beaten-path journey. The high quality of local dining establishments and farm-to-table experiences rivals the more famous Langhe region. Here, we’ll introduce you to some traditional dishes you may encounter in local restaurants or during wine experiences available on Winedering.com.

Here are our recommendation for wine experiences in Alta Langa, carefully selected by Winedering, the world's most popular wine and food experiences marketplace.

If you need inspiration for your next trip or want to make adjustments to your existing reservation in Piedmont, take a look at our top itinerary suggested by Winedering for the stunning Alta Langa wine region. The Winedering team has carefully curated these tours to meet specific criteria:

Experience an unforgettable day tour in the heart of Alta Langa combining 2 renowned wineries of the area. Whether you're departing from Turin, Milan or Alba, start your journey by exploring the innovative Cantina Moscone and continue with Eraldo Revelli. At the end of the day, you will have tasted about 9 different wines.

With detailed itineraries and insider tips, your adventure through Alta Langa will be both seamless and enriching.

Remember to take your time, enjoy the stunning views, and soak in the warm hospitality of the local winemakers and residents. Here's to many memorable wine experiences in the heart of Piedmont, that you can easily book online on Winedering.com, the best online wine tourism marketplace worldwide. 

Buon viaggio and cheers to your Alta Langa adventure!

Book Now on Winedering.com