About this episode
After diving deep into Nebbiolo in Episode 248, Janina knew it was time to go further into Piemonte - but this time beyond Barolo and Barbaresco.
In this episode, she’s joined by Baltic wine expert and educator Agnese Gintere to explore the lesser-known indigenous grapes of the Langhe. From the so-called “white Barolo” Nascetta to Pelaverga, Freisa, Dolcetto, Barbera, Arneis and Favorita, this is a love letter to the region’s unsung heroes.
Expect producer recommendations, travel tips, value alternatives to Barolo - and yes, a little Nebbiolo obsession too.
04:04 Why Langhe? The recent rise of Barolo & Barbaresco and why the region feels magical.
06:04 Falling in love with Langhe - the wines first, then the fog, hills and landscape.
08:33 If not Nebbiolo, then what? The real unsung hero grapes of Langhe.
10:31 Nascetta explained - the so-called “white Barolo” and its revival from near extinction.
12:45 What Agnese learned about Nascetta’s history and ageing potential.
15:05 Pelaverga - the sommelier’s insider grape with earthy, herbal character.
17:17 Pelaverga experimentation - sparkling styles and white versions.
18:53 Freisa - Nebbiolo’s close relative and its quiet revival.
23:27 Dolcetto - “little sweet one” or gentle hills? Style, structure and best areas to explore.
26:45 Dogliani DOCG, ageing potential and value bottles.
28:47 Barbera - plush fruit, high alcohol and the future of north-facing slopes.
31:49 Link to Janina’s previous podcast episode (Ep 166) featuring Braida (Barbera specialists).
33:12 Respecting terroir - why Barbera and Nebbiolo shouldn’t compete for the same vineyard sites.
33:46 White grapes of Langhe - Arneis vs Favorita (aka Vermentino).
37:05 Agnese’s must-visit place - Serralunga d’Alba and the magic of the hills.
39:51 Best-value Nebbiolo outside Barolo & Barbaresco - Roero, Gattinara and Ghemme.
41:08 A magical winery visit - Enrico Rivetto and other iconic estates.
41:33 Estates mentioned - Rivetto, Gaja and Aldo Conterno.
44:06 Best time to visit Langhe - truffle season vs early autumn.
46:17 If you could only drink one non-Nebbiolo Langhe wine - Grignolino (“baby Nebbiolo”).
49:42 Next week - Switzerland, Chasselas, Petit Arvine and DNA expert José Vouillamoz.
Watch Agnese's YouTube Channel No Sediment HERE.
? Questions or feedback? janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk
? Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat
? YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat
? Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk
Cheers
