Other Experiences Hills of Novara

In the gentle hills north and east of Novara, the Colline Novaresi region quietly cultivates a rich wine tradition. Rolling terraces stretch across Upper Piedmont between the Sesia and Ticino rivers, shaped by morainic soils and a temperate continental climate. Here, vineyards cluster around small villages and ancient hilltops, offering vistas toward Monte Rosa. The wine area is relatively compact, yet deeply expressive—many bottles reflect microclimates, local grape traditions, and the delicate tension between altitude and plain. It’s a wine territory for those who appreciate quiet landscapes, close stories, and wines of character.

Visiting the Hills of Novara invites travelers into a mosaic of small estates and family‑run wineries. Tastings are often intimate, by appointment, in cellars tucked into stone farmhouses or within vine‑lined hillsides. Wine tours usually combine vineyard walks, cellar visits, and tasting flights of local labels. Many producers also share their origin stories—vineyard heritage, restoration efforts, hand‑harvesting practices. It’s a slow travel wine region: you’ll often pause for conversation, pause for light, and pause for the view. Exploring by bike or foot is common here to reveal the subtle transitions between one cru and the next.

The gastronomy of Novara’s hills reflects Piedmont’s heart: hearty, local, seasonal. Traditional dishes include risotti, polenta, game, mushrooms, and savory cold cuts. In the broader Piedmont context, you’ll find cheeses, truffles (in appropriate seasons), and rich sauces. The wines from the hills—especially with Nebbiolo, Vespolina, and Uva Rara—pair beautifully with grilled meats, aged cheeses, and savory ragùs. Seasonal vegetables, herbs, and river‑fish dishes also make appearances in homes and trattorias. The food is often humble yet deeply rooted in place, designed to enhance the structure and aromatic nuances of the local wines.

Nebbiolo (locally known as Spanna in this area) is the core variety in many red wines here, producing wines of structure, elegance, and ageability. Alongside Nebbiolo, Vespolina and Uva Rara often appear — either as blends or varietal expressions. In the Colline Novaresi DOC, you’ll also find reds based on minor local grapes like Bonarda Novarese and Croatina. Among whites, Erbaluce features as a crisp, aromatic counterpoint, sometimes joined by Moscato or Chardonnay in lesser plantings. Morainic, gravelly, and mixed soils bring minerality and brightness, while the hillside exposures give ripeness with balance.

Spring brings awakening: vineyard buds unfurl, wildflowers bloom, and temperatures moderate enough for walking. Summer is warm but tempered by elevation and gentle breezes; this is when grapes accumulate aroma and ripeness. Harvest season (late August through September) is peak activity—fields buzz with picking, pressing, and fermentation. Autumn glows with golden light, and many cellars open for tastings and events. Winter is quieter, when pruning begins and cellars rest. Each season colors the vineyards differently, and also affects the wine styles vintage by vintage.

Begin your journey in Novara or its rural foothills, then head into the colline toward villages like Ghemme, Boca, Sizzano, Fara, Suno, or Mezzomerico. Stay in agriturismi or historic farmhouses among vineyards. Plan tastings in advance—many wineries are small and open by booking. Combine wine visits with hiking in the morainic hills, bicycling between vineyards, or exploring nearby historical towns, castles, and local markets. Let the pace be unhurried: allow time for food pairing, lingering over glasses, and letting the landscape sink in. Bring a map and curiosity—a day can yield a dozen subtle wine moments.

The average price of a wine tasting with winery visit in Hills of Novara is around €40. Depending on the experience, prices range from €15 to €65. Booking in advance ensures availability and the best prices.

Here are the top wineries to visit in Hills of Novara:

• La Piemontina
• Podere ai Valloni
• Cà Nova di Giada Codecasa
• Cantina Fontechiara
• Il Roccolo di Mezzomerico

Here are the best wine tastings to book in Hills of Novara:

• Tour and Wine Tasting at Fontechiara Winery
• Nebbiolo Wine Tasting in Upper Piedmont at La Piemontina
• Wine Casino at La Piemontina in Upper Piedmont
• Welcome to Alto Piemonte: Discover Boca and Its Unique Wines
• I Suoli Vulcanici di Boca – Discover the Supervolcano and Organic Wines at Podere Ai Valloni
• Boca Gold Experience – A Deep Dive into Boca DOC and Vigna Cristiana at Podere ai Valloni
• Wine tasting experience at Cà Nova in Piedmont
• Tour in the vineyard in the north of Piedmont