Wine bars to visit:
- Enoteca Vinile
- Casa del Barolo
- Rossorubino
- Osteria Rabezzana
- Enoteca Piana
- L'Enoteca
Take a guided wine tasting near the Royal Palace of Turin
See times and booking information
Turin, with its regal ambiance and cultural richness, is an enclave of exquisite wine experiences. As Italy's first capital and the historical seat of the kingdom of Savoys, it's a city where culture and wine intertwine seamlessly, framed by the Alps and the flowing Po River. At the heart of Piedmont, a region renowned for its prestigious vineyards, Turin offers a wine journey that goes beyond the famous Barolo and Barbaresco to include gems like Carema DOC and Freisa, wines that encapsulate the spirit and terroir of the area.
For those venturing into Turin's wine scene, the city's center, a tapestry of historic piazzas, quaint cafés, and specialty shops, is the perfect starting point. Wander from the central squares towards the Royal Palace, and you'll find yourself in a gastronomic haven where tradition meets innovation.
Rossorubino stands out as a testament to this blend of tradition and contemporary appeal. Managed by the Gazzera brothers, this wine shop and eatery boast an impressive selection of 1,700 labels, including rarities like Baratuciat and Montanera. It's a place where you can savor a glass of wine alongside dishes that celebrate local flavors, such as tajarin pasta with sausage and leeks.
Trattoria Coco's, a familial venture near the Valentino Park, epitomizes the charm of Turin's piolas. Offering a down-to-earth atmosphere, patrons are treated to home-cooked delights and a selection of local wines that evoke the city's rich culinary traditions.
Osteria Rabezzana, a historic wine shop cum eatery, provides an intimate glimpse into Turin's gastronomic legacy with its selection of 900 labels, including the Rabezzana family's own wines. It's a venue where the past and present merge, offering dishes that reinterpret Piedmontese classics with flair.
For cheese aficionados, Latteria Bera is a must-visit. Chiara Franzosa's century-old cheese shop offers an array of artisanal cheeses, a testament to Piedmont's dairy excellence. It's a place of warmth and history, where the love for cheese is palpable.
Villa della Regina offers an experience that transcends wine tasting. The villa, with its restored interiors and vineyards, provides a panoramic view of Turin, making it an essential visit for those wanting to immerse themselves in the city's viticultural heritage.
In the realm of contemporary and natural wines, Enoteca Botz and Enoteca Vinile are standout destinations. Enoteca Botz, known for its vibrant aperitivo scene and selection of natural wines, is a place where the local and international mingle. Enoteca Vinile, though not detailed here, likely shares a similar ethos, emphasizing natural and traditional wines and the convivial atmosphere that defines Turin's wine bars.
Turin, often overshadowed by Italy's more tourist-centric cities, holds a treasure trove of enological and culinary delights. From the self-assured elegance of its wine bars to the historical depth of its vineyards, Turin offers a wine journey that is both deeply rooted in tradition and vibrant with contemporary innovation. Whether you're a seasoned oenophile or a casual enthusiast, Turin's wine scene promises
The local wine list menù: a little help
White Wines
Gavi: Grown in the town of Gavi in southeastern Piedmont, Gavi is made from the Cortese grape. It's a dry and crisp white wine with notes of green apple, citrus, and mineral undertones. Gavi pairs excellently with seafood dishes, salads, and light appetizers.
Arneis: Arneis is a native grape variety of Piedmont, producing aromatic and medium-bodied white wines. It offers floral aromas, along with flavors of pear, peach, and almond. Arneis wines have a refreshing acidity, making them ideal companions for creamy pasta dishes, risottos, or grilled vegetables.
Rosé Wines
Brachetto d'Acqui: Brachetto d'Acqui is a slightly sparkling rosé wine made from the Brachetto grape. It's characterized by its intense floral bouquet and sweet red berry flavors, reminiscent of strawberries and raspberries. This wine is perfect for pairing with desserts or enjoyed on its own as a delightful summer sipper.
Rosato del Monferrato: Produced in the Monferrato region of Piedmont, Rosato del Monferrato is a dry rosé wine crafted from local grape varieties like Barbera and Dolcetto. It exhibits vibrant pink hues, with bright acidity and flavors of red currants, cherries, and citrus zest. Pair it with charcuterie boards, grilled seafood, or light pasta dishes.
Red Wines
Nebbiolo d'Alba: Nebbiolo d'Alba is another expression of Nebbiolo that offers a more accessible and approachable introduction to the grape. Produced in the Alba region of Piedmont, Nebbiolo d'Alba showcases the classic characteristics of Nebbiolo, including floral aromas, red fruit flavors, and firm tannins. This wine pairs well with grilled meats, hearty pasta dishes, and aged cheeses.
Barolo: Known as the "King of Wines" and the "Wine of Kings," Barolo is made from the Nebbiolo grape in the Barolo region of Piedmont. It's a full-bodied and complex red wine with robust tannins, offering aromas of roses, violets, tar, and red fruit. Barolo pairs beautifully with hearty dishes such as braised meats, aged cheeses, and truffle-infused dishes.
Barbaresco: Made from Nebbiolo grapes grown in the Barbaresco region, Barbaresco is similar to Barolo but often considered more approachable in its youth. It boasts elegant tannins, with notes of dried flowers, cherries, and spices. Pair Barbaresco with roasted poultry, game meats, or mushroom risotto.
Gattinara: Gattinara is a lesser-known Nebbiolo-based wine produced in the northern part of Piedmont, near the town of Gattinara. It's often compared to Barolo and Barbaresco but tends to be lighter in style with more pronounced acidity. Gattinara offers flavors of cherries, raspberries, and earthy undertones, making it a versatile pairing for a range of dishes, from roasted meats to mushroom risottos.
Whether you're exploring Piedmont's sparkling, white, rosé, or red wines, you're sure to encounter a world of flavor and tradition in each glass. Cheers to discovering the rich diversity of Piedmontese wines. Take a wine tasting with us to discover them with a live guide.
