The Barbaresco Hills: land of wines and history between Barbaresco and Neive

The Barbaresco Hills, one of the six areas of the UNESCO site of the Vineyard Landscapes of Piedmont, are famous for the production of Barbaresco, one of the most prestigious Italian red wines. This region includes the municipalities of Barbaresco and Neive , both in the province of Cuneo, where the hills exposed to the sun are ideal for the cultivation of Nebbiolo, the grape variety from which this high quality wine is obtained.

 

 

Barbaresco is known for its garnet red color that tends to orange with aging, and for a complex bouquet that can range from violet to licorice. Its full and robust taste reflects the character of these lands, making it a wine not only of great value, but also the custodian of a rich cultural heritage.

 

 

Barbaresco and Neive are ideal for spending a weekend immersed in nature and history, stopping to taste typical local products to accompany a red glass of Barbaresco.

 

 

Barbaresco is easily recognizable thanks to its medieval tower, which dominates the landscape above the Tanaro river. The village retains a medieval imprint with a main street overlooked by numerous wine-growing activities. Among the attractions stands out the Enoteca Regionale del Barbaresco, housed in the baroque church of San Donato. The castle of Barbaresco, once home to the first Cantina Sociale founded by Domizio Cavazza, is now a world-famous winery. Cavazza, considered the father of Barbaresco, developed the winemaking technique still used, which involves the exclusive use of Nebbiolo grapes. The village also hosts events such as "Il Barbaresco a tavola" and "Piacere Barbaresco", celebrating wine through tastings and meetings. 

 

 

Neive, counted among "The most beautiful villages in Italy" since 2001, is a charming medieval village with cobbled streets that wind towards the top of the hill. Among its architecture, the Clock Tower and the Archconfraternity of San Michele stand out, a Baroque jewel. The Bottega dei Quattro Vini di Neive, located in the cellars of the former Town Hall, represents the winemaking tradition of the village, offering tastings of local wines. In addition, Neive is famous for the Levi Distillery, founded by Serafino Levi and made famous by his children Romano and Lidia, who have transformed grappa into an internationally recognized art.

 

 

These places, also celebrated in Beppe Fenoglio's novels, offer not only excellent wines but also glimpses of rare beauty, with their hills dotted with vineyards and covered with dense vegetation. The landscape is a reflection of the centuries-old work of man who has been able to integrate agriculture and nature. Routes not to be missed include the Romantic Road of the Langhe (11 stages for 130 km) and the panoramic trek "From Barbaresco to Neive", which winds through the rows of vines and offers spectacular views of the hills and historic villages.