Piedmont Values
by Jane Augustine
2024 Dolcetto di Diano d’Alba “Sörì Cristina”
Italy | Piedmont
Doesn’t Dolcetto translate to “the little sweet one,” for its easy-drinking charms? Palazzotto’s Sörì Cristina defies this stereotype: punchy and bold, it’s best suited to dishes like steamy ragù, or rich veal parm—meat-and-tomato-based recipes that crave a firm tannin and will meld to its tart backbone. I am bookmarking this wine for late fall, when the weather cools and calls for a cozy Italian red and a bowl of comfort food.
2025 Roero Arneis
Italy | Piedmont
I admittedly did not know what to expect when pulling the cork on this Arneis. I couldn’t remember the last time I’d tried one. As it splashed into my glass, the first thing I noticed was a delightful prickle of micro-fine bubbles—not the kind that add fizz, the ones that boost refreshment and lend texture to fresh young whites. After a few sips, what struck me most is the way the variety reminded me of Sauvignon Blanc. If you ask me, Roero Arneis is Italy’s answer to a lively Bordeaux blanc or Loire Valley Cheverny.
2024 Grignolino di Piemonte “Mondine”
Italy | Piedmont
Imagine my surprise, knowing Grignolino is a red variety, when I poured out the most translucent brick-colored wine with a youthful glow. Perfumed and tangy, and low in both tannin and alcohol, it surpassed my idea of what a Piemonte rosso could be. It’s suitable for any meal of the day, pairing well with lightweight dishes like herby, radish-laden grain salads or crispy squash blossoms filled with ricotta and citrus zest. Tenuta La Pergola has regaled us with their easy, everyday blends for years, but this single-variety Grignolino is my new favorite.