There is a wine shop in Barolo called La Vite Turchese that provides a truly individual experience for each guest. Of course you can go to wine shops elsewhere — but here, the passionate owners do not simply serve you a glass of something from the region. They listen to what you think you like, discuss what you think you want, and then bring wines to taste along with maps and knowledge of the region that is unsurpassed. We have tasted a lot of wine all over the world and this place, with Stefano and Elisabetta at the helm, is like no other shop we’ve ever visited. You leave La Vite Turchese knowing more about the region, its wine, its history, its future and what you like. A visit here will help you appreciate the wine list at local restaurants, and visits to Barolo producers in the area, even more.
Touring and tasting at a winery is also a great way to spend an afternoon here – or if you’re up for it, start in the morning and taste all day with different producers! You will want to make an appointment. Smaller wine makers may not speak English so you will want to consider this as you make your reservations for a tasting. We recommend Marchesi di Barolo or Vietti but there are many others. When you find a wine you particularly enjoy, see if you are able to get an appointment with an English-speaking host.
If you want to learn more about the wines from this region check out our blog, Comparing Barolo and Barbaresco Wines.
Hike through the Barolo vineyards
There are trails between all the hill towns in this area and they take you right through the beautiful patchwork of vineyards of nebbiolo grapes. Hiking from Barolo to Monforte d’Alba, having lunch with a bottle of Nebbiolo and then returning back to where you started, is a great way to spend your day. Another option is to begin in Barolo and hike uphill through the vines to La Morra. Enjoy the panoramic views and then go to a tasting at Marcarini, either in their tasting room, or make an appointment for a tour and tasting in their winery, which lies just below the city walls. Make it a full loop by returning through Annunziata and back to Barolo.
If you would like to try some of the great wines from the Barolo region see An Insider’s Short List of Favorite Barolo Wines.
Ride a vespa or a bike between each iconic city
Another great activity here is to rent a vespa or a bike for the day and ride between all the little villages, stopping in each one to explore the cobblestone streets, galleries, enotecas and people that make this area such a joy. They call them hill towns for a reason – most of these villages are on the top of a hill, so if you choose a bike instead of a vespa, why not try an electric bike? That will make your return easier, especially if you decide to enjoy some grappa or moscato d’Asti after your meal.
