University of AHsomm
>PIEDMONT - Roero
Country
Italy
Region
Piedmont
Appellation
DOCG
Best known for
Major varieties
Nebbiolo (Red)
Arneis (White)
Summary
Piedmont’s region of Roero (row-arrow) lives in the shadow of its more famous southerly neighbor, the Langhe, which encompasses Barolo and Barbaresco. Located north across the Tanaro River, northwest of the town of Alba, Roero is more laid back, has a slightly drier climate and sandier soils, and focuses on white instead of red wine.
It is primarily known for fresh, dry whites made from the local grape varietal, Arneis. Arneis is a pleasantly aromatic grape variety that was historically used to soften Barolo and/or attract pests away from the more profitable Nebbiolo vines, but is produced now as a single-varietal white wine and is increasing in popularity. It has floral, peach and almond notes, and is sometimes bottled with a touch of effervescence for extra freshness.
Reds in Roero are produced mainly from the Nebbiolo grape (the same variety that is used in Barolo and Barbaresco to the south) in a more easily-approachable style than in the Langhe (softer tannins, fruitier, more aromatic). They may not be quite as long-lived, but are ready to party sooner!
Wine Styles
Dry Reds
Dry Whites
Sparkling
High acidity and elevated tannins. Floral and red berry notes. Softer, more approachable than wines from Barolo or Barbaresco.
Varieties
95% Nebbiolo
5% Approved other
Min Alcohol
12.5% Rosso
12.5% Riserva
Min Aging
Rosso
20 Months
6 Months in barrel
Riserva
32 Months
6 Months in barrel
High acidity and elevated tannins. Floral and red berry notes. Softer, more approachable than wines from Barolo or Barbaresco.
Varieties
95% Arneis
5% Approved other
Min Alcohol
12.0% Bianco
12.0% Riserva
Min Aging
Bianco
4 Months
Riserva
16 Months
High acidity and elevated tannins. Floral and red berry notes. Softer, more approachable than wines from Barolo or Barbaresco.
Varieties
95% Arneis
5% Approved other
Min Alcohol
11.5% Spumante
Dosage
Brut to Dolce
Soil
Soils in the Roero region have a higher content of sand which increases drainage and tends to give wines a lighter, fruitier style. They also contain more limestone than further south due to an inland sea that covered the region millions of years ago and left behind marine sediments. Producers today still find fossilized sea creatures in the vineyards!
