An Ode to Piedmont

Antonio and I had the great pleasure of hosting another fulfilling trip to the Langhe area of Piedmont with a spectacular group of people (most of whom have travelled with us before.) “Oh sure, you say that about all your trips,” you are thinking. In so many words, I do say that about all our trips, but this most recent trip to Piedmont stood out for so many reasons, not the least of which were the genuine and adventurous souls who joined us. Many of our winery and restaurant visits were bucket-list places that even Antonio and I continue to get emotional about as we remember the experiences. I still daydream about the elements that set this trip apart. Allow me to paint the picture…

Getting intimate with Angelo Gaja

Are you familiar with the Langhe, where some of the world's highest quality and most age-worthy wines are hand-crafted in small batches?

Have you seen the springtime, oh-so-green, undulating hills of the Langhe, with the snow-capped Alps in the background? If you have, you know what I mean by the tranquil feeling that washes over you when you are in the among them.

Have you had a perfectly made negroni that you blended yourself with artisanal spirits? I did and needless to say, I am spoiled for life.

Have you gotten up close and personal with some of the legendary winemakers in Barolo and Barbaresco? I have been fortunate to have done so many times, but this trip felt more intimate and emotional than at any time prior. Perhaps it is the changing climate in the wine industry, both literally and figuratively. The original men and women that gave their blood, sweat, tears and intelligence to “put this region on the map” are old or have already passed. Those that remain exude the desire to share their experiences and help the world understand what a treasure the Langhe area is.

Lunch at Poderi Colla

Up close and personal with Chiara Boschis

Have you spent time talking to a humble grandmother who has turned out 140-180 excellent meals per day, 5 days per week for over 50 years, and has a waitlist every day to get into her restaurant?

Mamma Gemma

Have you seen the faces of your friends when they have a poetic ah-hah moment while tasting a perfectly aged Barbaresco or Barolo?

If “yes” is not your answer to the above questions, I hope I can turn it into a “yes” on one of our future Piedmont trips. Look for a repeat of this trip in spring 2027, and by all means, get on our mailing list so you will be the first to hear about it!