There is one way to understand how much a region believes in its own potential: observing how much time it is willing to invest in order to demonstrate it. The history of Alta Langa DOCG is precisely this: insights that stem from the distant past, experimentation in the vineyard as well as in the cellar, and producers who have believed in the possibility of producing great Metodo Classico (i.e. traditional method) sparkling wines on the hills of Piedmont.
This journey has also received a significant accolade: the Piedmont Region has named the Alta Langa DOCG ‘Wine of the Year 2025’, entrusting it with the task of representing the region’s culinary and wine excellence.
This announcement has turned the spotlight on a relatively young appellation, yet one with deep roots stemming from the idea of producing great sparkling wines right here amongst our hills.
Alta Langa: the origins of a story with a Piedmontese flavour
When we talk about Metodo Classico sparkling wines (i.e. traditional method), our thoughts often turn to France. Yet, the sparkling wine from this region was the first Metodo Classico to be produced in Italy as early as the mid-19th century, the direct heir to an ancient sparkling wine tradition dating back to Carlo Gancia.
The turning point, however, came in 1990 with the Spumante Metodo Classico in Piemonte project, at a time when the production of Metodo Classico sparkling wines from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in the Piedmontese hills was still something of a gamble. It was against this backdrop that the name ‘Alta Langa’ was chosen in 1998.
In 2001, the Consorzio di tutela (i.e. Preservation Consortium) was established; in 2002, DOC status was granted; and finally, in 2011, Alta Langa was awarded DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita), the highest mark of quality, leading up to the present day with a production of over three million bottles.
The tenacity and perseverance of the winegrowers are always rewarded by the bountiful Piedmontese land, and it is precisely the terroir that takes centre stage in this journey, so much so that the name ‘Alta Langa’ refers to a hilly area in southern Piedmont, spanning the provinces of Asti, Alessandria and Cuneo.
The production regulations stipulate that vineyards must be situated on hillsides, at a minimum altitude of 250 metres above sea level, on moderately fertile marly, calcareous-clay soils, as the production of Metodo Classico sparkling wines requires grapes capable of withstanding secondary fermentation and a long ageing process. The climate, exposure, altitude and daily temperature variations all contribute to the ripening of the grapes and the preservation of acidity, a key factor in the wine’s freshness and balance.
Alta Langa DOCG: a profile of the Piedmontese Metodo Classico
Alta Langa DOCG is a Piedmontese sparkling wine produced exclusively using the Metodo Classico, that is, through secondary fermentation in the bottle.
The permitted grape varieties are Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, either individually or in combination, in varying proportions but with a total proportion of between 90 per cent and 100 per cent, in accordance with the production regulations. However, the extremely long ageing periods also help to define its identity: the production regulations stipulate at least 30 months of ageing and time spent on the lees for non-Riserva versions, and at least 36 months for Riserve.
Finally, a key feature is the mandatory inclusion of the vintage on the label: Alta Langa is therefore always vintage-dated. Each bottle tells the story of a specific harvest, with the climatic conditions and characteristics that defined it.
Alta Langa DOCG according to Vinchio Vaglio
At Cantina di Vinchio Vaglio, the decision to produce Alta Langa came from the winegrowers themselves, who manage vineyards with characteristics well-suited to this type of sparkling wine. It is a decision rooted in their knowledge of the vineyards as well as their understanding of the region’s potential.
Vinchio Vaglio’s Alta Langa DOCG features a fine, persistent mousse, a fragrant and complex bouquet, and a savoury, refined, fruity and harmonious flavour, with a straw-yellow colour. The aromatic profile evokes white flowers and citrus fruits, accompanied by notes reminiscent of yeast and bread crust, with a pleasant hint of caramel.
Dishes to pair with Alta Langa
The freshness and structure of Alta Langa make it an interesting wine to enjoy with a meal. Perfect as an aperitif or for a toast, this wine is exceptional when paired with starters, raw fish, shellfish and delicate dishes, where its freshness and savouriness help to maintain balance.
It is a wine that also holds its own alongside richer dishes, such as risottos, white meats, dishes featuring mushrooms and asparagus, as well as cured meats and flavourful main courses, where the aromatic profile of Pinot Noir will interact beautifully with more intense ingredients.
The fine bubbles of Metodo Classico wines pair well with both rich and light, delicate dishes; in fact, they are now considered suitable for the entire meal, from starters to main courses (perhaps with the sole exception of those cooked with tomato sauce). The only ‘no-absolutley-not’ is pairing it with desserts!
