Book review: Italy, Piedmont – The Dream, the House, the Life
- Written by Diana Zahuranec
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If you're interested in launching yourself into the discovery of Piemontese wines, Turin is an ideal city to use as a starting point. Rich with wine shops and wine bars, or enoteche, here are some of the most intriguing and historical locales where wines are encased in atmospheres that echo with the past. If you follow this list in order, then it becomes an enoteca-itinerary. We suggest you start at Porta Susa, one of the city's two main train stations (the other being Porta Nuova) and stopping point of the shuttle service between Caselle Torinese international airport and the city center. From the station you can easily reach Piazza Statuto on foot, an intriguing square full of dark legends like the obelisk and its entry point to hell directly underneath.
Beat the heat in the Langhe and Roero with the best pools hidden away in the rows of vineyards: Take a dip, revive your body and spirit, and indulge in some tasty treats
The climate of the Langhe and the Roero in the summer can reach blazing hot temperatures. It's the perfect weather for maturing grapes to turn rays of sunshine into bottles of wine, but it's decidedly muggy for visitors and inhabitants of the zone. There could be nothing better than a hideaway crystalline pool among the rows of vineyards. And here in the heart of wine country, don't expect sticky cocktails and stale potato chips served poolside, but wines and regional delicacies that will truly let you submerge yourself in the culture and cuisine of the area. The pools that we've chosen are all open to the public and set amongst the green vineyards of the Piemontese hills. Don't forget to call and reserve a spot if you plan swimming on the weekend, days when the relaxation and cool relief of a pool are especially sought after.
Travelers who have visited the zone of Barolo know that wineries close up shop after 5:00 pm. We've done our rounds and found what we think are some of the best locales for tasting a nice glass of wine before, after, and evening during dinnertime. Our selection is tailored for those seeking wine bars that have a varied wine list with local producers; are lesser-known; serve excellent Piedmontese food; and have a pleasant atmosphere. Try these wine bars and let us know your favorite--from our list, or from your own experience!
The cru, or menzioni ("mentions") as Italians may call them, of Barbaresco are many and dear to producers and wine lovers – but they would mean even more, and their unique characteristics would be appreciated by more people, if someone explained their differences according to style. Alessandro Masnaghetti does just that.
"In Barolo, every angle has a story to tell - and some more than others. So if time is short, choose wisely which corner you'd like to explore." (Alessandro Masnaghetti)