Wine Denomination from Piedmont
Alta Langa DOCG was established in 2011 specifically for traditional method sparkling wines produced in the higher elevation zones of the Langhe and Monferrato hills in Piedmont. The denomination recognizes the suitability of these cooler, higher-altitude terroirs for producing elegant sparkling wines from Chardonnay and Pinot Nero. Alta Langa represents Piedmont's commitment to creating world-class traditional method sparklers that can rival Franciacorta and Champagne, demonstrating that the region's terroir excellence extends beyond still red wines.
The Alta Langa DOCG covers approximately 1,000 hectares across 147 communes in the provinces of Cuneo, Asti, and Alessandria in southeastern Piedmont. The production zone encompasses the higher elevation areas of the Langhe hills and Monferrato at altitudes between 250 and 750 meters. Key communes include Dogliani, Santo Stefano Belbo, Canelli, Bubbio, and Bossolasco. The denomination specifically targets hillside vineyards at elevations that provide cooler temperatures and longer growing seasons, conditions ideal for developing the bright acidity and elegant fruit character essential for quality sparkling wine production.
Alta Langa DOCG permits only Pinot Nero and Chardonnay, used individually or in combination. The regulations do not specify minimum percentages, allowing producers complete flexibility in blending these two classic sparkling wine varieties. This permits creation of blanc de blancs (100% Chardonnay), blanc de noirs (100% Pinot Nero), or blends combining both varieties. The restriction to these two varieties aligns Alta Langa with international standards for premium traditional method sparkling wines, distinguishing it from other Piedmont denominations that use indigenous varieties.
Alta Langa DOCG requires traditional method (metodo classico) production with secondary fermentation in bottle. Maximum yields are set at 10,000 kg per hectare, producing no more than 68 hectoliters per hectare of base wine. Minimum alcohol content is 11% for base wine. The wine must age on the lees for at least 30 months from tirage for vintage wines and 24 months for non-vintage. Riserva requires minimum 36 months on lees. Only vintage-dated wines may be labeled as Millesimato, and Riserva must be vintage-dated. The extended aging requirements ensure complexity and integration of autolytic characters from yeast contact.
Alta Langa displays pale straw yellow to golden color with fine, persistent perlage (bubbles). The aroma is elegant and complex, featuring white flowers, citrus, green apple, toasted bread, brioche, and hazelnut from extended lees aging. Chardonnay-based wines emphasize finesse and minerality, while Pinot Nero adds structure and red fruit notes. On the palate, Alta Langa is dry with crisp acidity, refined mousse, and long finish. The characteristic elegance and precision reflect both the cool-climate terroir and extended aging. Riserva wines develop greater complexity with toasted almond, honey, and mineral notes while maintaining freshness.
The Alta Langa territory encompasses the cooler, higher-elevation zones of the Langhe and Monferrato hills. The predominantly calcareous clay soils with limestone and sand provide excellent drainage and moderate vine vigor. The elevation creates a crucial cooling effect, extending the growing season and allowing grapes to maintain high acidity while developing aromatic complexity. The continental climate features cold winters, warm but not hot summers, and significant diurnal temperature variation. These conditions are ideal for Chardonnay and Pinot Nero, which require cooler temperatures than the Nebbiolo grown at lower elevations for Barolo DOCG and Barbaresco DOCG.
Alta Langa DOCG regulations establish strict quality standards aligned with international benchmarks for premium traditional method sparkling wines. All wines must undergo chemical analysis and sensory evaluation before receiving DOCG certification. The denomination permits only vintage and non-vintage designations, with Riserva representing the highest quality tier. Dosage levels from Brut Nature to Demi-Sec are permitted. The regulations explicitly require traditional method production, distinguishing Alta Langa from Charmat method sparklers like Asti DOCG. The denomination has quickly established credibility in the competitive sparkling wine market, with producers investing in dedicated facilities and vineyard development to realize Alta Langa's quality potential.