Why do so many people only know Pinot Grigio and Chianti? These Italian wines are far better.

I have lived in the Piedmont region of North West Italy for ten years. I can say without a shadow of doubt that the red wines of Piedmont are exceptional and amongst the best in the world. Barolo is the king of these wines. Read on for more on these superb Piedmont wines:

Barolo is one of the most famous of all Italian wines. This wine is produced in a carefully defined territory just south of the Tanaro River, The wine has a bouquet of violets and a smooth velvety flavor with a slightly resinous aftertaste - known as goudon or tar. This wine is absolutely superb. If you have never tried it do yourself a favor and buy a bottle.

Barbera A very food friendly wine and unlikely to overpower food. Ideal with most meats. Medium to full bodied. A robust red wine with a dry, crisp finish

Barbaresco is a wine that comes from steep slopes surrounding the ancient town of that name, it is also a "big" wine - a younger sibling of Barolo wine if you like - and it matures quicker.

Nebbiolo is from the north of the Tanaro. This wine has a violet fragrance which is characteristic of this Italian grape variety. Nebbiolo wine vintages are lighter and the wines can be drunk young.
Many estates produce only limited quantities of under 20,000 bottles a year. Some of these produce magnificent boutique wines of the finest quality.