FRONTIER SPIRIT

The four northernmost regions of Italy share more than just a mountainous border with neighbouring countries. Meet some of the key winemakers in each region – some of whom own vines on both sides of the border - and discover the results of an ongoing exchange of ideas and wine heritage

- STORY DEMET GÜZEY

As wine lovers increasingly seek freshness, finesse and authenticity, northern Italy is stepping into the spotlight. From the alpine extremes of Valle d’Aosta in the far northwest to the terraced slopes of Valtellina, and around to the northeast for the German-speaking vineyards of Alto Adige and the Slavic-leaning cellars of Collio, these frontier regions expand the idea of what ‘Italian wine’ can be.

The rugged collar of Italy’s boot, spanning some 1,800km, is shaped by rivers, forests and above all the Alps. Some of these zones are autonomous Italian regions with distinct cultural heritages. Some have vineyards so steep that they require heroic viticulture.

What do these culturally distinct regions have in common? They have well-draining mineral soils and great southern exposure. They have cooling winds and large day and night temperature shifts. They have resilient grape varieties that express the best version of themselves in the local conditions. And innovative winemakers who defy political lines.

Wines that emerge in these frontiers embody both tradition and transformation. They speak fluently across cultures.

French & Swiss borders

Valle d’Aosta

Tucked high in the Alps where Italy meets France and Switzerland, Valle d’Aosta is Italy’s smallest and most alpine wine region. Though part of Italy since the country’s unification in 1861, Valle d’Aosta’s true borders have always been defined by mountains.

Italian and French are both official languages, while the local Franco-Provençal dialect, Valdôtain, is another way this valley has held onto its roots.