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| ABOUT THE MONFERRATO
OF PIEMONTE The region of Piemonte, or Piedmont, is renowned throughout Europe for its fine food, wonderful wines, and splendid vistas. The Monferrato is Piemonte´s heartland. Monferrato, has a rich and complex history. The name “Monferrato”, was first noted in the 10th C. when the knight, Aleramo, was granted by Emperor Otto, all the rich lands that he could circle on horseback in three days: the Monferrato became his fiefdom. But, even before Aleramo, the area had an interesting history. Today’s vineyards yield up fossils from the Paleolithic sea which once washed over our land, as well as Roman tombs, and medievel artifacts. You do not have to look hard to find the beauty for which Italy is famous. Every town and village has at least one jewel. Within a few kilometers of our houses, there are hundreds of wine cellars, thousands of interesting and ancient castles, towers, abbeys ,chapels, and sleepy villages to explore. The Monferrato lifestyle is slow ,orderly, and courteous... “Prime time” is allocated to family, friends, and table. Shops and businesses close for three hours midday to allow for a leisurely lunch—and again, in the evening, when restaurants begin to open. Monferrini know how to savor the beauty and the bounty of their land, and to respect its history and traditions. |
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There is a justifiable pride in the cuisine
of Piemonte. This is the region which gave birth to the “Slow Food” movement! Good restaurants abound , from Michelin Star elegance to the family run trattorias, for which, Italy is so well known. Outdoor markets of fresh, local farm produce that changes with the seasons, are held in the town piazzas. The bakers are said to practise the “White Art”, and their crusty loaves, salty foccacias, and sweet specialties are made with pride and without preservatives. Our village butchers offer locally grown beef from the famous Piedmontese white bulls. Sausages, cheeses ,chicken, eggs ,and salamis are proudly labeled “nostramo” or “our own”. And… Piemonte is truffle country.White truffle season is usually from late September through December, with several truffle fairs during those months where one can buy, or just sniff. |
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Wine is fundamental to the culture and economy of Piedmont. Monferrato and neighboring Langhe and Roero make up one of Europe’s
most important wine zones: D.O.C for the reds Barbera,. Barolo, Barbaresco,
Dolcetto ,Grignolino, Ruchè, Freisa, Nebbiolo---and whites: Moscato,
Cortese, Favorita, Arneis. |