Arneis

The Story

Arneis means 'little rascal' in Piedmontese—the grape is difficult to grow. By 1970, fewer than 10 hectares remained. Bruno Giacosa saved it. Now it's Piedmont's signature white.

Insider Story

Arneis grew in Roero (Piedmont) for centuries, often interplanted with Nebbiolo to attract birds away from the red grapes. But Arneis was difficult—prone to disease, low-yielding, hard to vinify.

By 1970, Arneis was nearly extinct. Bruno Giacosa (legendary Barolo producer) decided to save it. He made modern, fresh Arneis. Critics loved it. Other producers followed.

Arneis exploded. Plantings jumped from 10 hectares (1970) to 1,000+ hectares (2020). Roero Arneis DOCG was created in 2004.

But Arneis is inconsistent. Young vines and high yields produce thin, boring wine. Old vines and low yields produce complex, age-worthy Arneis.

Technical Deep Dive

Arneis has moderate acidity (5.5-6.5 g/L), pear and almond aromatics, and a slightly bitter finish. Alcohol: 12.5-13.5% ABV.

Sandy soils (Roero) produce aromatic, elegant Arneis. Clay soils produce richer, fuller styles.

Oak: rarely used. Stainless steel preserves Arneis' freshness. Some producers use light oak for complexity.

Industry Secrets

Roero Arneis from top producers (Bruno Giacosa, Ceretto, Vietti) ages 5-10 years. $20-40 bottles rival $50-80 white Burgundy. But nobody cellars Arneis because it's 'drink-young Italian white.'

More white grapes

• Arrufiac
• Asprinio
• Assyrtiko
• Athiri
• Azal