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Diano D'Alba wine region also known as Dolcetto di Diano d’Alba, is a fine wine-producing commune in Piedmont in northwest Italy. The region is part of seven Dolcetto Appellations producing rich, fruity, and complex wines that are comparable to the best wines from Piedmont. There are around 75 approved vineyards totaling approximately 300 hectares on the rolling hills around the town center. Diano D’Alba wine region produces more than a million bottles of their finest wines. The region also sells aged wines labeled as Dolcetto di Diano d’Alba Superiore.

Diano D'Alba 2

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Where is the Diano D'Alba wine region?

Diano D'Alba wine region is centered around the town of Diano D'Alba, in the municipality of Diano, just north of Serralunga. The region lies in the province of Cuneo and is just 50km southeast of Turin and about 50km northeast of Cuneo. The region is bounded by Alba, Benevello, Grinzane Cavour, Montelupo Albese, Rodello, and Serralunga d’Alba. The wine region covers the communes around the town of Diano d’ Alba between the Belbo and Tanaro rivers. 

History of the Diano D'Alba wine region

The region received its name from the town of Diano D’Alba. Diano d’Alba was a goddess of hunting during the Ligurians and Romans. The town center was developed during the 18th century. This amazing appellation was created in 1974 and received its own DOCG status in early 2010. The wines were first marketed in 1996 under the Sori di Diano, promoted in Italy and abroad. 

The terroir and geography of the Diano D'Alba wine region

The landscape of the Diano d’Alba is much similar to that of neighboring Barolo and Barbaresco. The altitude of the vineyard ranges from 400-550 meters above sea level. 

The soil in the Diano D’Alba wine region is mostly calcareous, and sandy which is rich in tufa. Grapes in the region ripen early as most of the vineyards are faced southwest.

Popular grape varieties from the Diano D'Alba wine region

The region is committed to Dolcetto Grapes and it has been like this for centuries. Although all seven appellations produce wines from the Dolcetto grapes, the Diano d’Alba wines are quite different. The wines feature ruby red color with purple hints with aromas of plums, cherries, berries, spices, and flowers. The wine has a subtle almond finish on the palate. These wines go perfectly with the local cuisines of Diano. 

Food to pair with Diano D'Alba wine 

Bagna cauda

Bagna cauda, also known as “hot bath” in Italian, is an Italian dish that has been around for centuries. It is a simple yet delicious combination of garlic, anchovies, and olive oil cooked in a pot and served with vegetables such as celery, carrots, and artichokes.

The dish is traditionally served during the cold months of winter in Italy but can be enjoyed any time of year. The ingredients are combined to create a creamy sauce that is both flavorful and comforting. The dish is often served with bread or crackers to dip into the sauce.

Bagna cauda has become increasingly popular over the last few years due to its simplicity and versatility. It can be used as an appetizer or main course, making it perfect for any occasion or gathering.

Tagliatelle al ragu alla Bolognese

Tagliatelle al ragu alla Bolognese is an Italian dish that has been around for centuries and is still enjoyed by many people today. It is a classic dish from the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, consisting of tagliatelle pasta in a rich and flavorful meat sauce. This dish has become a staple in Italian cuisine, with its simple yet delicious flavors that make it a favorite among home cooks. While the traditional recipe calls for beef, pork, or veal as the main ingredients in the sauce, modern variations often include chicken or other meats as well. With its hearty flavor and comforting texture, Tagliatelle al ragu alla Bolognese will be sure to delight your taste buds!

Beef ragu pasta

This is a traditional Italian family recipe. It is a family recipe that has been passed down through generations and is one of Italy's most popular dishes. The beef ragu pasta is made with meat, tomatoes, onions, carrots, and celery. The sauce is often cooked for several hours to get the desired flavor. This dish is typically started with browned beef in olive oil on the stovetop before being set aside to gradually boil with vegetables, tomato sauce, and seasonings. Slow simmering allows the flavors to blend while also reducing the sauce's liquid level, making it thicker and more flavorful. In Italian cuisine, ragu is a popular meal. 

Places to visit in the Diano D'Alba wine region

Castle of Serralunga d’Alba

The Castle of Serralunga d’Alba, also known locally as Castello di Serralunga d'Alba, is a fortified castle that sits atop a hill overlooking the city. The castle was said to be built during the 14th century featuring unusual architecture, inspired by French Donjon. The castle belonged to the Falletti family, one of the noble families involved as bankers in Asti. The family and the region were closely attributed for more than 600 years. The last descendant, Giulia Falletti Colbert, died in 1864 resulting in the acquisition of the castle by the Italian state. The historic mansion is the landscape's icon, immediately striking for its vigor and verticality of Gothic architecture.

Parish Church

The town's church square also provides a compelling panoramic perspective of the Langa of Barolo landscape, particularly the Castles of Grinzane Cavour, Serralunga Alba, and Barolo. The perspective lies right on the ruins of the old fortress, which was destroyed by Vittorio Amedeo l in 1632.

Another notable structure is the Palazzo Ruffing, which was built for the first time in the mid-seventeenth century and was almost fully rebuilt in 1730. Inside, there are beautifully furnished chambers, including the spectacular council chamber, which houses the Napoleonic cards as well as stunning friezes and valuable furniture.

The wine cooperative "I Sor of Drano d'Alba" is located in Diano d'Alba and now has 44 wine producers as members.

They can sample the local wine, Dolcetto di Diano d'Alba, at this location.

Diano D'Alba

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Frequently asked questions about Diano D'Alba

Where is the Diano D'Alba wine region located?

The Diano D'Alba wine area revolves around the town of Diano D'Alba, which is located in the municipality of Diano, approximately north of Serralunga. The region is located in the province of Cuneo, around 50 kilometers southeast of Turin and about 50 kilometers northeast of Cuneo. Alba, Benevello, Grinzane Cavour, Montelupo Albese, Rodello, and Serralunga d'Alba form the region's borders. The wine region encompasses the communes surrounding Diano d'Alba, located between the Belbo and Tanaro rivers.

What are the different kinds of grapes that grow in the Diano D'Alba appellation?

The region is dedicated to Dolcetto grapes and has been for centuries. Although all seven appellations make Dolcetto-based wines, the Diano d'Alba wines are notably distinct. The wines are ruby red with purple overtones and smell like plums, cherries, berries, spices, and flowers. On the palate, the wine has a delicate almond finish. These wines pair wonderfully with Diano's regional cuisine.

What kind of wine is a Diano D'Alba?

Diano D'Alba wines are characterized by their ruby red color, low acidity, and classic taste with an elegant finish. These wines are different than the typical Dolcetto wines with their lightness, fruitiness, and spiciness with flowery notes. Serve Diano d’Alba wines with white meat, soups, and stews.

Map of Wineries in Diano D'Alba

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