A Journey to the Heights of Alta Langa

The journey to Cissone, nestled in the Province of Cuneo, is a pilgrimage for those who seek the sublime in a glass. As my wife and I wound our way through the rolling hills of Piedmont, the anticipation of tasting the renowned Alta Langa sparkling wines was palpable. The landscape, a tapestry of vineyards and ancient villages, whispered promises of the delights to come.

Upon arrival, the vineyard stood proudly at 650 meters above sea level, a testament to the unique terroir that defines this region. The crisp mountain air carried the scent of ripe grapes, a prelude to the tasting experience that awaited us. The vineyard’s philosophy of patience and precision was evident in every aspect of their craft, from the meticulous care of the vines to the artful blending of vintages.

The Art of Classic Method Production

Our host, a passionate artisan winemaker, guided us through the cellar, revealing the secrets of their Classic Method production. Here, time is an ally, not an adversary. The wines are allowed to mature for at least 40 months on their yeasts, a process that imbues them with a complexity and depth that is truly extraordinary.

We began our tasting with a wine still in the process of refinement, its potential palpable yet restrained. The next glass, a fully matured sparkling wine, unveiled a symphony of flavors—aromatic herbs, ripe fruit, and a lingering note of sweet almond. Each sip was a revelation, a testament to the vineyard’s commitment to excellence and innovation.

The winemaker’s approach, blending different vintages and reserve wines aged in barrique, results in a unique expression of the Alta Langa terroir. This unconventional method creates a wine that is both complex and harmonious, a true reflection of the land from which it springs.

A Toast to the Future

As we concluded our tasting, the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the vineyard. The experience was more than just a tasting; it was an immersion into the heart of Alta Langa, a celebration of tradition and creativity.

The wines we tasted were among the finest I have encountered in my travels, each bottle a testament to the passion and dedication of its creators. As we bid farewell to our gracious hosts, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience such artistry firsthand.

For those who seek the extraordinary in their culinary adventures, a visit to this vineyard is a must. The Alta Langa sparkling wines are not just a drink; they are a journey, a story told through the language of the vine. Until next time, I raise my glass to the heights of Alta Langa, where the art of winemaking reaches its zenith.