Set amongst the Ligurian Apennines, the hills and plains of the Alessandria area, the Novi and Tortona regions form a highly diverse wine-growing landscape, shaped by the river basins of the Scrivia, Lemme, Grue, Ossona and Curone. The hillside altitudes, breezy exposures and proximity to the Ligurian Sea help to create favourable conditions for the gradual ripening of the grapes, with significant daily temperature variations and distinct aromatic profiles.
In the Novese area, the hills around Gavi and the Lemme and Scrivia valleys dominate, where the Cortese grape finds one of its most recognisable expressions. The region’s white wines are distinguished by their freshness, finesse, balance and a characteristic savoury character, supported by winemaking techniques designed to preserve the aromatic profile. Alongside still wines, the tradition also includes semi-sparkling and sparkling wines, produced through secondary fermentation and the ‘presa di spuma’ method using techniques designed to enhance acidity and delicacy.
In the Tortona area, amongst the Curone, Grue and Ossona valleys, viticulture is practised mainly on hilly soils rich in marl, clay and limestone, with the Sant’Agata Fossili marl among the most characteristic geological features. Here, the grape varieties include Timorasso, Cortese, Barbera, Dolcetto, Croatina and other traditional varieties. The white wines display structure, depth and ageing potential, whilst the reds alternate between immediacy, liveliness and greater intensity depending on the grapes and vineyard exposures.
Vineyard management favours traditional training systems, such as Guyot and spurred cordon, with harvesting generally carried out by hand and meticulous selection. In the cellar, temperature-controlled fermentation, measured use of oak and extended ageing allow the balance between fruit, minerality and terroir to be brought to the fore. Villages, castles, ancient trade routes and rural traditions complete the identity of an area where history and oenological research coexist in natural harmony.