Piemonte, and Italy in general, is known for its magnificent red wines. Yet, red and rose wines only make up 41 percent of the country’s wine production, according to the data provided by the Italian National Institute of Statistics in 2025. White and sparkling wines contribute to the majority of the volume, but they are often misunderstood and underrated. Thanks to the Grandi Langhe held in Turin two weeks ago, many outstanding non-reds were given the stage to shine. Below are three lesser-known denominations with some exciting discoveries.
Alta Langa DOCG: Piemonte was the first Italian region to produce sparkling wines utilizing the traditional method, Metodo Classico, back in 1850. But it was not until 2002 that Alta Langa DOC was formed, and then promoted to a DOCG 15 years ago. Alta Langa has some of the strictest production requirements, including a minimum of 250 meters for vineyard elevation, and the restriction to vintage-only labeling. The 2021 Mirafiore Blanc de Noir was filled with juicy peaches, lemon curd, and a touch of croissant, while the 2021 Rapalino 1998 Anniversario had an interesting kick of tangy and kumquat sensations.
Colli Tortonesi DOC Timorasso: Ask any Italian wine enthusiasts, and they would most certainly agree that Timorasso is one of the fastest rising stars in Italy. Known for its herbal and diesel characters, the native Piemontese white grape variety is considered noble and age-worthy. The 2022 Vigneti Repetto Derthona Timorasso Origo was a perfect example of how Timorasso balances between fresh fruits of golden delicious apples and apricots with tertiary notes of honey and truffles.
Canelli DOCG: A complex and sophisticated Moscato? Yes! Once a subzone of Moscato d’Asti DOCG, Canelli became a separate DOCG less than three years ago. The 2025 Scagliola Giacomo Sifasol expressed robust characters of mandarin orange, yellow peaches intertwined with acacia and blossom. The layers of aroma defied Moscato’s reputation as a straightforward, easy-quaffing wine.
Alice Wong is a certified wine educator based in Hong Kong
