Piedmont is a food and wine lover’s paradise and one of our favorite regions of Italy. While not as accessible as California wine country, it’s much more rewarding.

The hills of the Langhe are dotted with medieval towns and lined with a patchwork of vineyards. On a clear day, you can see the snow-capped Alps in the distance. The food is rich - predominantly made with butter, pasta, game, and truffles.

We recently visited Piedmont with Ceri Smith, 2014 Food & Wine Sommelier of the Year and owner of Biondivino Wine Boutique in San Francisco. Our focus was on traditional, small production wineries that make Barolo in a classic, elegant style. While you may not have seen these wines in your local wine shop or on your favorite restaurant wine lists, they are well worth seeking out. Once you try them, you’ll become a collector.