History
Arneis indigenous to Roero since 1400s, historically blended with Nebbiolo to soften Barolo tannins. Nearly extinct by 1960s. Alfredo Currado (Vietti) revived Arneis 1967, devising grape sourcing methods. Bruno Giacosa championed variety 1970s-80s. DOC 1989 for Arneis. DOCG 2004 covering both white Arneis and red Nebbiolo. Matteo Correggia pioneered modern Roero style.
At a glance
- Climate
- Continental; 19 municipalities left bank Tanaro River; ancient ocean floor sandy-calcareous soils with fossilized shells; warmer than Langhe creating softer Nebbiolo
- Signature wines
- Malvirà Renesio Roero Arneis (biodynamic flagship), Matteo Correggia Roero Arneis, Bruno Giacosa Roero Arneis, Cascina Chicco Valmaggiore, Monchiero Carbone Printi - benchmark expressions of sandy terroir
- What sets it apart
- Only DOCG producing both premium white (Arneis) and red (Nebbiolo); ancient ocean floor sandy soils with fossilized shells; Arneis saved from near-extinction 1967 by Alfredo Currado; softer Nebbiolo style than Langhe; 77% white production unusual for Piedmont
- 1,158 hectares total
- DOCG 2004 (DOC 1989 for Arneis)
- Arneis cultivated since 1400s
- Alfredo Currado first vinified 1967
- 889ha Arneis vs 269ha Nebbiolo
- sandy soils from ancient ocean floor