Grignolino from Piedmont

Light in colour, full of character

Grignolino is one of the most distinctive and fascinating red wines from Piedmont. At first glance, its light ruby colour might seem a little delicate, but don’t be fooled — this is a wine with real character. Fresh, lively and slightly rustic: Grignolino is loved for its bright red fruit notes, floral aromas, firm tannins and distinctive, pleasantly bitter finish.

This wine, made from the ancient Grignolino grape, has deep roots in the hills of Monferrato and Asti, where it has been part of the local wine culture for centuries. For many wine lovers in Piedmont, Grignolino represents tradition in its purest form: elegant, authentic and delicious with food.

Grape variety

Grignolino is made from 100% Grignolino, one of Piedmont’s oldest indigenous grape varieties. The name is likely derived from the Piedmontese word grignole, which refers to the grape’s numerous seeds, which naturally contribute to the wine’s surprisingly firm tannins.

The grape thrives in the sandy and limestone-rich soils of the Monferrato hills, particularly around Asti and Casale Monferrato, where it is protected under the Grignolino d’Asti DOC and Grignolino del Monferrato Casalese DOC appellations.

Appearance

In the glass, Grignolino displays a pale ruby red colour with subtle orange or brick-red reflections. Its lighter appearance is part of the wine’s charm and elegance, offering a refreshing alternative to fuller-bodied red wines.

Primary flavour notes

Grignolino is known for its bright, lively and slightly savoury flavour profile:

• Geranium and rosehip

• Strawberry and red cherry

• Orange peel and pomegranate

• Dried herbs and white pepper

• A subtle finish of bitter almond

This combination of floral freshness, red fruit and gentle bitterness makes Grignolino truly unique among Italian red wines.

Aromatic profile

The nose is delicate yet expressive, opening with aromas of fresh strawberries, cherries and pomegranate, followed by floral hints of geranium and wild rose. As the wine develops in the glass, subtle notes of white pepper, dried herbs and lemon zest emerge, adding depth and complexity.

The overall impression is lively, elegant and somewhat untamed — a wine that feels both traditional and unexpectedly refreshing.

Taste

On the palate, Grignolino is dry, lively and light to medium-bodied, with refreshing acidity and a firm tannin structure that gives the wine a surprising grip and texture. Despite its lighter colour, it is full of energy and character.

The finish is long and pleasantly bitter, often with hints of almond and dried herbs that linger after every sip — a classic hallmark of authentic Grignolino.

Wine style

Dry red wine — light to medium-bodied, fresh, lively and subtly rustic.

Pairings

Thanks to its lively acidity and food-friendly structure, Grignolino pairs beautifully with a wide variety of dishes.

Antipasti & Charcuterie

Excellent with cured meats, salami, vitello tonnato and classic antipasti platters.

Light meat dishes

Naturally pairs well with roast chicken, rabbit, veal and grilled pork.

Traditional Piedmontese cuisine

A wonderful companion to:

• Agnolotti dal plin

• Bagna cauda

• Savoury tarts and frittata

• Rustic vegetable dishes

Cheese

Best enjoyed with fresh and semi-mature cheeses such as:

• Robiola

• Toma Piemontese

• Fresh Pecorino

Vegetable dishes

Perfect with grilled vegetables, stuffed peppers and Mediterranean-style dishes.

Grignolino is a wine for curious drinkers — elegant yet unconventional, traditional yet full of energy. A true hidden gem of Piedmont.