Wine Tastings Hills of Novara

The best wine tastings in the Hills of Novara

Discover a region where the Alps meet the vineyards, offering a wine experience defined by volcanic soils and ancient traditions. The Hills of Novara, located in the northern part of Piedmont (Alto Piemonte), present a cooler, more mineral-driven expression of Nebbiolo—locally known as Spanna—compared to its southern counterparts. This area is home to prestigious appellations like Ghemme DOCG and Boca DOC, covering a landscape shaped by a collapsed supervolcano that gifted the soil with porphyry and gravel. Wine tastings here are intimate and authentic, often hosted directly by the winemaking families in historic castle-shelters (ricetti) or modern cellars facing the Monte Rosa massif. Through Winedering, you can book these curated experiences instantly, securing your place in a region that balances rustic charm with world-class elegance.

Wine tastings in the Hills of Novara, among local flavors and aromas

A tasting in the Hills of Novara is a sensory journey through iron, stone, and wildflowers. The wines here are characterized by a distinct savory streak and vibrant acidity, derived from the acidic, volcanic terrain that sets this area apart from the calcareous Langhe. You can expect aromas of violet, dried cherry, and a specific flinty minerality that speaks to the geological history of the Sesia Val Grande UNESCO Geopark. A typical flight usually includes 3 to 5 wines, moving from fresh, pepper-scented Vespolina to structured, age-worthy Ghemme DOCG reserves. When tasting, look for the vertical tension in the glass—a sharp, clean line of acidity balanced by fine-grained tannins. Visits generally last between 60 and 90 minutes, conducted in English or Italian, and are suitable for both casual enthusiasts and serious collectors wanting to understand the nuances of "Nebbiolo del Nord."

Great classics and iconic wines of the Hills of Novara, tastings you can't miss

The true icons of this region are the long-lived red wines protected by the Ghemme DOCG, Boca DOC, Sizzano DOC, and Fara DOC appellations. These wines are primarily based on the Nebbiolo grape, often blended with indigenous varieties like Vespolina and Uva Rara (Bonarda Novarese) to add spice and roundness. Production rules here are strict; for instance, a Ghemme DOCG requires over three years of aging, with at least 18 months in wood, resulting in a wine of immense complexity and longevity. Unlike the immediate power of some southern Piedmont wines, these northern classics offer a nervous elegance, unfolding slowly in the glass with notes of tar, blood orange, and licorice. The best way to appreciate them is through a comparative tasting or a vertical flight, where you can trace the evolution of the wine over different harvest years. We recommend booking these premium experiences to fully grasp why critics are increasingly focused on Alto Piemonte.

Hills of Novara wine tasting map: plan your tour in a couple of clicks

• Strategic Clusters: The wineries are concentrated in two main clusters: the Ghemme/Sizzano area and the Boca/Maggiora area, making it easy to visit multiple producers in one trip.
• Logistics: A car is essential. The drive between the northernmost and southernmost appellations is roughly 30 minutes.
• Half-Day Route: Visit two wineries in Ghemme, exploring the historic Ricetto, followed by a tasting of Vespolina.
• Full-Day Route: Start in Boca for a high-altitude vineyard walk, lunch in a local trattoria with Paniscia risotto, and finish with a Sizzano DOC tasting in the afternoon.
• Weekend Route: Spend two days exploring the entire "Coste della Sesia" and Novara hills, staying overnight in a renovated farmhouse or wine resort.
• Book Now: Open the Winedering map to filter by date and availability, and secure your itinerary instantly.

Winery tours in the Hills of Novara, a complete experience from grape to glass

Stepping into a winery in the Hills of Novara often feels like entering a piece of living history, where the scent of damp earth and old oak barrels fills the air. A complete tour goes beyond the tasting room, guiding you through vineyards trained on traditional trellises or the historic maggiorina system, an architectural vine training method unique to this area. You will likely visit fermentation rooms where stainless steel stands alongside large Slavonian oak casks, essential for the slow, oxidative aging that Nebbiolo requires. Producers here frequently discuss the impact of the "Supervolcano" soil—rich in porphyry and minerals—and the significant diurnal temperature shifts caused by the nearby Alps, which lock in aromatics. Whether you choose a simple introduction or a technical deep dive with the winemaker, these tours ground the flavor of the wine in the reality of the land.

The best wineries and wine producers in the Hills of Novara to visit

Defining the "best" producers in this region involves looking for a balance between historical stewardship and modern precision. The landscape is a mix of centuries-old estates that have maintained the reputation of Ghemme for generations, and smaller, biodynamic artisans reviving the difficult, steep slopes of Boca. When browsing listings, look for producers who emphasize single-vineyard bottlings or those who have championed the recovery of rare local grapes like Erbaluce or Croatina. The region is home to fewer than 50 commercial bottlers in key appellations, ensuring that hospitality is almost always personal and unhurried. Use Winedering to browse these select producers, check real-time availability, and book your visit directly to ensure the cellar door is open for you.

Wine experience Hills of Novara: worth doing, worth sharing

Wine experiences in the Hills of Novara are characterized by a slow, welcoming pace that invites you to linger over a glass while gazing at the snow-capped Monte Rosa. Beyond simple tastings, the region offers opportunities to connect with the land through vineyard picnics, harvest dinners, and guided walks along the Sesia river. We prioritize trust and transparency, providing verified user reviews, clear pricing, and flexible cancellation policies so you can book with confidence. Whether you are gifting a tour to a loved one or planning a personal escape, booking a confirmed experience here means securing a memory rooted in authentic Italian hospitality.

Hills of Novara tastings with local menus, plus lunch or dinner at the winery

Food is inseparable from wine in the Hills of Novara, and many tastings include generous platters of local specialties. A "local menu" here is robust and savory, featuring artisanal cured meats like salam d'la duja (salami preserved in fat) and regional cheeses. The pairing logic is rooted in tradition: the high acidity and tannins of a Ghemme or Boca cut perfectly through the richness of fatty cold cuts and creamy risottos. Experiences range from light lunches with three wines to full seated dinners where every course is matched to a specific vintage. These culinary sessions typically last 2 to 3 hours and offer a deep dive into the gastronomic culture of the province. Check the menu inclusions on our listings and reserve early, as seated meals often have limited capacity.

Vineyard picnics and sunset aperitifs in the Hills of Novara

As the sun lowers over the Alps, the vineyards of Novara take on a golden hue, creating the perfect setting for an outdoor aperitif. These experiences allow you to enjoy a basket of local bread, cheese, and wine right among the rows, immersed in the silence of the countryside. The best time for these open-air tastings is from late spring to early autumn, when the weather is mild and the vines are lush. Most packages allow for flexibility in case of rain, offering a sheltered alternative in the barrel room. Book a sunset slot to watch the light change on the mountains while enjoying a chilled glass of Colline Novaresi Rosato.

Guided tasting experiences in the Hills of Novara: wineries, hikes, and weekend getaways with an overnight stay

For those who prefer a slower, more immersive approach, guided experiences in the Hills of Novara offer a chance to explore the "Alto Piemonte" rhythm. You can combine wine tastings with trekking routes through the UNESCO Geopark or along the banks of the Sesia river, learning about the geological forces that created the terroir. Multi-winery days allow you to compare the sandy soils of one hill against the clay-rich earth of another, training your palate to detect subtle differences in structure and aroma. Weekend packages often include overnight stays in renovated winery guesthouses, providing a complete immersion where you wake up to the view of the vineyards.

Hills of Novara wine tastings with moments for couples and experiences for the whole family

This region is a versatile destination, welcoming both couples seeking romance and families looking for relaxation. For couples, private tastings in historic cellars or candlelit dinners near the vineyards offer an intimate atmosphere away from the crowds. Families can find wineries with ample outdoor space, where children can play in the gardens or learn about farm life while parents enjoy a guided flight. Most experiences are 1.5 to 2 hours long, making them easy to fit into a varied itinerary. Non-alcoholic options like grape juice or local fruit nectars are frequently available for minors. We recommend filtering for family-friendly tags to find the most suitable estates.

Vouchers, bundles, and wine tastings to gift in the Hills of Novara

Gifting a wine experience in the Hills of Novara is more than just giving a bottle; it is sharing a journey to one of Italy's most fascinating emerging wine regions. Vouchers and bundles offer flexibility, allowing the recipient to choose their preferred date for a premium tasting, a vineyard picnic, or a cellar tour. These gifts are valid for an extended period and come with instant confirmation, making them a perfect last-minute option that feels thoughtful and luxurious. From introductory flights for novices to vertical tastings of Ghemme for connoisseurs, a Winedering voucher is the safest way to gift an unforgettable memory.

Beyond Hills of Novara: more tastings to try nearby

If you have an extra half-day, the surrounding areas offer incredible wine diversity within a short drive. Just across the Sesia river lies the province of Vercelli, home to the renowned Gattinara DOCG, where the soils shift and the wines take on a slightly different structural profile. To the north, the Ossola valleys offer heroic viticulture on steep terraces. Most of these neighboring wine zones are within a 30 to 45-minute drive, allowing you to build a multi-stop itinerary that compares the various expressions of Nebbiolo across Northern Piedmont. Explore our nearby listings to expand your palate.

Surprising wine experiences among provinces and towns around Hills of Novara

Venturing just outside the main appellations reveals hidden gems in towns like Suno and Bogogno. These sub-areas, often categorized under the Colline Novaresi DOC, are known for producing vibrant, fruit-forward wines and excellent whites from the Erbaluce grape. The soil here is often more glacial and morainic, yielding wines with a different mineral signature than the volcanic red zones. Seek out small, family-run boutique wineries that champion indigenous varieties like Uva Rara in purity. Adding a stop in these lesser-known towns provides a complete picture of the region's viticultural heritage.

Hills of Novara wine highlights

Before you book, it is helpful to understand the fundamentals of this unique wine region. The Hills of Novara are part of Alto Piemonte, boasting a vineyard area that is significantly smaller and more fragmented than the Langhe, ensuring an artisanal scale of production. The area is home to one DOCG (Ghemme) and several DOCs (Boca, Sizzano, Fara, Colline Novaresi). The defining factor here is the soil: acidic, rich in minerals, and largely volcanic, combined with a continental climate featuring wide day-night temperature differences. This terroir produces wines with high fixed acidity ("freshness"), pronounced sapidity (a savory, salty character), and fine, elegant tannins.

Hills of Novara grape varieties: heritage, soil, and tradition

• Nebbiolo (Spanna): The king of the region. Here it develops floral notes (violet), red fruit, and earthy minerality. It loves the sun-drenched, south-facing slopes.
• Vespolina: A native red known for its intense spicy aroma, particularly white pepper. It adds nerve and color to blends or shines as a zesty single-varietal wine.
• Uva Rara (Bonarda Novarese): Used to soften the aggressive tannins of Nebbiolo, adding fruitiness and roundness to the blend.
• Erbaluce: The primary white grape, grown on morainic soils. It produces crisp, acidic dry whites and complex traditional method sparkling wines.
• Croatina: Another blending partner contributing dark fruit and body, often found in the Sizzano and Fara appellations.
• Discover: Use our grape guide to filter tastings that feature these specific varieties.

Signature wines of the Hills of Novara and labels to know

• Ghemme DOCG: The flagship red. Requires 34 months of aging (18 in wood). Expect a garnet color, ethereal aromas, and a dry, savory finish.
• Boca DOC: Produced in the highest, most northern vineyards. A blend of Nebbiolo and Vespolina that is known for its extreme longevity and silky, mineral texture.
• Sizzano DOC: A historic red favored by Cavour, blending Nebbiolo with Vespolina and Uva Rara for a ruby-red, elegant profile.
• Colline Novaresi Nebbiolo DOC: A younger, more approachable expression of the grape, often aged in stainless steel or minimal oak to preserve freshness.
• Colline Novaresi Vespolina DOC: A must-try for spice lovers, showcasing the peppery character of this indigenous variety.
• Look for: Listings that offer "Riserva" tastings to experience the aging potential of these wines.

Food and wine in the Hills of Novara, the perfect pairing

The cuisine of Novara is rich, comforting, and designed to support the structure of its red wines. The landscape is a patchwork of vineyards and rice paddies, meaning rice dishes are central to the table. The local wines, with their cleansing acidity and tannins, act as the perfect foil for the butter and cheese-heavy dishes typical of the region. Gorgonzola DOP, which originated nearby, is a staple ingredient. When you choose a tasting with food, you aren't just eating a snack; you are experiencing a centuries-old gastronomic dialogue between the cellar and the kitchen.

Food & wine tours in the Hills of Novara to taste the region beyond the glass

For a deeper dive, consider a food and wine tour that includes visits to local producers beyond the winery. These experiences might combine a cellar tour with a visit to a Gorgonzola aging facility or a traditional rice mill (riseria). Tours often include transport, allowing you to relax and enjoy a guided lunch paired with regional wines. The value lies in the context: understanding how the fog that aids the Nebbiolo also benefits the rice crops. Book a comprehensive tour to taste the full spectrum of Novara's bounty without the hassle of driving.

Hills of Novara wines and local dishes with pairings you'll want to try

• Ghemme DOCG & Paniscia Novarese: The ultimate local pairing. The tannic grip of Ghemme cuts through this rich risotto made with beans, lard, and salami.
• Vespolina & Gorgonzola Piccante: The spiciness of the wine mirrors the sharpness of the blue cheese, while the acidity cleanses the palate.
• Boca DOC & Tapulon: A donkey meat stew (traditional to the area) served with polenta. The wine's mineral depth stands up to the intense flavor of the meat.
• Erbaluce & Fried Lake Fish: The high acidity of this white wine is perfect for cutting the oiliness of fried fish from nearby Lake Orta.
• Colline Novaresi Rosato & Local Salami: A refreshing, versatile pairing for a casual aperitif with salam d'la duja.
• Tip: Look for tastings that specifically mention "Paniscia" or "local cheeses" to try these combinations.

Make it yours: build a Hills of Novara-themed getaway

Planning a trip to the Hills of Novara is about finding a balance between the rustic quiet of the vineyards and the cultural richness of the nearby towns. A good flow involves one or two winery visits per day, allowing time for a leisurely lunch and a visit to a scenic viewpoint. The town of Novara or the village of Orta San Giulio make excellent bases. Distances are short, but the winding roads encourage a slower pace. Use our map to visualize the winery clusters and book your tastings in advance to ensure a seamless itinerary.

Things to do around Hills of Novara to make your trip even more memorable

• Lake Orta: Just 20-30 minutes from the vineyards, this is one of Italy's most romantic lakes. Visit the island of San Giulio.
• San Gaudenzio Dome: Climb the cupola of this architectural masterpiece in Novara city for a view of the entire Alps.
• Sacred Mountain of Varallo: A UNESCO World Heritage site nearby, featuring chapels with life-sized statues, offering a mix of art and hiking.
• Shopping: Visit the Vicolungo The Style Outlets for a break between cultural stops, located conveniently near the highway.
• Golf: The Bogogno and Castelconturbia golf clubs are among the best in Italy and sit right among the vines.
• Combine: Pair a morning round of golf or a lake visit with an afternoon wine tasting for a diverse day.

Storybook villages, must-see sights, and places to visit around Hills of Novara

• Ghemme: Famous for its Ricetto, a fortified medieval shelter used by villagers to store wine and grain, now home to cellars.
• Romagnano Sesia: Visit the medieval bridge ruins and the cellar museum.
• Orta San Giulio: A pedestrian-only village on the lake, perfect for a sunset aperitif.
• Arona: A lively town on Lake Maggiore, dominated by the massive statue of San Carlo Borromeo.
• Tip: Most of these villages are within 30 minutes of the main wine routes. Add a stop in Ghemme's Ricetto for a photo opportunity.

Planning a trip to Hills of Novara? Here's the best time to go

• Autumn (Sept-Nov): The peak season. The vineyards turn red and gold, the truffle season begins, and the fog adds a mystical atmosphere.
• Spring (April-June): Green and vibrant, with mild temperatures perfect for hiking and outdoor tastings.
• Summer (July-Aug): Can be warm and humid, but evenings are pleasant. Vineyards are in full leaf.
• Winter (Dec-Feb): Quiet and intimate. Great for serious red wine lovers who want to taste by the fireplace in the cellar.
• Advice: Book well in advance for autumn weekends, as this is the most popular time for truffle and wine tourism.

Wine festivals and events in and around Hills of Novara you won't want to miss

• Taste Alto Piemonte (Spring): Usually held at the Castle of Novara, this is the premier event to taste wines from all northern appellations in one place.
• Festa dell'Uva (September): Harvest festivals in Ghemme and surrounding towns featuring parades, tastings, and street food.
• Cantine Aperte (May): A nationwide event where local wineries open their doors for special tours and music.
• Calici di Stelle (August): Nighttime tastings under the stars, often held in historic centers or vineyard terraces.