Roero Arneis and Langhe Arneis at Ritschard Weine: a gem among Italian white wines
The history and rediscovery of an old grape variety
Arneis is an Italian white wine variety that is steeped in tradition and was already known in the 15th century. The grape variety, which originally comes from Piedmont, was almost forgotten for a long time and threatened to die out. But in recent decades, Arneis has experienced a remarkable revival. While in the early 1990s only about 50 hectares were still planted with Arneis in Italy, this area has now grown to about 1,200 hectares. The variety has become particularly well established in the Roero hills in the province of Cuneo, a region famous for its wine tradition.
The name ‘Arneis’ means ‘the little difficult one’ in the Piedmontese dialect, which refers to the challenges in growing and vinifying this grape variety. Despite its demanding nature, the Arneis grape has secured a place in the hearts of many winemakers and wine lovers due to its unique characteristics and the special wine it produces. Written evidence of the existence of this grape variety can be traced back to 1500, which highlights the long history and importance of Arneis in the wine world.
Character and special features of the Arneis grape
Arneis is an exceptional white wine variety that has all the qualities of an outstanding white wine. Wine made from Arneis grapes has a floral bouquet with notes of acacia flowers and ripe fruit. On the palate, it offers a balanced interplay of sweetness and freshness, complemented by a fine acidity and subtle tannins that give the wine structure and complexity.
The Arneis grape variety belongs to the family of noble vines (Vitis vinifera) and is characterised by hermaphroditic flowers that allow self-pollination. This characteristic makes it a high-yielding and vigorous grape variety, although it is somewhat susceptible to powdery mildew. Despite these challenges, Arneis has made a name for itself in the wine world due to its adaptability and ability to produce wines of the highest quality.
Arneis wines from different regions
The wines made from Arneis grapes show different characteristics depending on the growing region. Roero Arneis, a DOCG wine from the province of Cuneo, is often described as robust and less fruity. These wines are characterised by their mineral notes and a certain depth that make them an excellent companion for rich dishes.
The Langhe Arneis, on the other hand, a DOC wine from the province of Alba, is known for its vibrant fruitiness and delicate structure. These wines are somewhat lighter and fresher, making them ideal for aperitifs or to accompany light dishes such as antipasti.
Arneis is grown almost exclusively in Piedmont, where the grape variety is traditionally at home. There are also small areas under cultivation in Australia, New Zealand and the United States, where Arneis is attracting increasing attention and being cultivated by innovative winemakers.
Roero Arneis: a gem among white wines
Roero Arneis is an elegant and complex white wine made from the traditional Arneis grape. This grape variety, which is native to the picturesque Roero hills in Piedmont, is affectionately known as ‘the little difficult one’. Despite its challenges in cultivation and vinification, it produces a dry white wine that impresses with its freshness and minerality.
Maturation in stainless steel tanks gives the Roero Arneis its characteristic freshness and minerality. The aromas are reminiscent of ripe pears, juicy melons, almonds and a hint of bergamot. These complex aromas make the Roero Arneis an ideal companion for a variety of dishes. It goes particularly well with fish, vitello tonnato and pasta, where its delicate acidity and mineral notes perfectly complement the flavours of the food.
Roero Arneis is truly a gem among white wines and a must for every wine lover. Its complexity and elegance make it a perfect companion for many culinary experiences.
Langhe Arneis: Another popular Arneis wine
Langhe Arneis is another outstanding representative of Arneis wines, made from the same noble grape variety. This grape variety, often referred to as ‘Barolo Bianco’ in Piedmont, produces a dry white wine that impresses with its fresh and harmonious notes.
The Langhe Arneis is grown in the various municipalities around Alba and is known for its vibrant fruitiness and delicate structure. The aromas of the wine are reminiscent of floral and fruity notes that are reminiscent of fresh flowers and ripe fruit. The taste of the Langhe Arneis is dry and spicy, very fine and harmonious, making it an ideal wine for an aperitif or to accompany light meals such as antipasti.
Langhe Arneis is a popular wine that impresses with its freshness and harmony. It is a perfect companion for many dishes and a must for any wine lover who appreciates the versatility and elegance of the Arneis grape.
Terroir and cultivation of the Arneis grape
The terroir plays a crucial role in the quality of Arneis wines. The region around Alba, especially the Roero hills, offers ideal conditions for growing this demanding grape variety. The soils in these areas are rich in limestone and clay, which gives the wines their characteristic minerality. The warm days and cool nights ensure a slow ripening of the grapes, which allows the aromas to develop particularly well.
The Sarotto winery, one of the most renowned in the region, owns some 25 hectares of vineyards spread across various municipalities around Alba. Here, Arneis is carefully cultivated to realise the grape variety's full potential. The winemakers focus on meticulously tending the vines and gently processing the grapes to produce wines of the highest quality.
Arneis is affectionately referred to as ‘Barolo Bianco’ in Piedmont, which indicates its outstanding quality and position as one of the best white wines in the region. The grape variety often shares the terroir with Nebbiolo, the main grape for the famous red wines Barolo and Barbaresco, and benefits from the same ideal growing conditions.
Arneis as a food companion
Arneis wines are not only a pleasure on their own, but also make excellent companions to various dishes. Thanks to their freshness and complexity, they go wonderfully with antipasti, light starters and seafood. Roero Arneis goes particularly well with white meat and poultry dishes, where the wine's delicate acidity and aromas complement the flavours of the food without overpowering them.
For a special taste experience, we also recommend Arneis with richer dishes, such as a cheese platter with aged Italian cheese or with fried fish. The versatility of this grape variety makes it an excellent choice for almost any occasion.
The renaissance of Arneis
Arneis has experienced a remarkable renaissance in recent decades. Having almost been forgotten, the grape variety is now being increasingly cultivated and appreciated again. Its unique character and the possibility of producing both powerful and delicately fruity wines have led to Arneis being rediscovered not only in Piedmont but also internationally.
The growing demand for high-quality white wines and the increasing appreciation of native grape varieties have propelled Arneis to the forefront of the wine world. Winemakers in Italy and other wine-producing regions are investing in the cultivation and development of this grape variety to create wines that showcase the full potential of Arneis.
Arneis – A white wine with character
Arneis is a white wine variety that impresses with its history, character and versatility. From being an almost forgotten wine to a highly regarded speciality, Arneis has earned a firm place in the world of wine. Whether as the robust Roero Arneis or the fruity Langhe Arneis, this grape variety offers a unique taste experience that delights wine lovers all over the world.
If you are looking for a special white wine, you should definitely try Arneis. The fine aromas, balanced acidity and the option of enjoying the wine both young and aged make Arneis an exciting choice for any wine cellar. In our online shop, you will find a variety of selected Arneis items. All prices of these items include the currently applicable VAT.
Frequently asked questions about Arneis white wine
What does Arneis taste like?
Arneis white wine offers a fascinating taste experience reminiscent of a blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Viognier. With aromas of almond, pear, green apple and melon, complemented by honey and herbal notes, it unfolds an impressive variety in the glass. The spicy finish rounds off the taste experience. ‘If you are looking for a versatile white wine, you will love Arneis,’ he says, swirling his glass. ‘The wine has floral notes, reminiscent of acacia and ripe fruit, and fills the mouth with a pleasant sweetness, while the balancing acidity and fine tannins ensure that it is never boring.’
How do you pronounce Roero Arneis?
It is thought that the name Arneis is derived from the Piedmontese term for ‘little rascal’. The grape variety is considered demanding in the vineyard and places high demands on the winemaker. The pronunciation follows Italian usage with a rolled ‘R’ and sounds something like ‘Arnäjis’.
Where is Arneis grown?
Arneis is mainly cultivated in Piedmont, where the DOCG wine Roero Arneis is produced in the province of Cuneo and the DOC wine Langhe Arneis in the province of Alba. There are also smaller areas under cultivation outside Italy, for example in Australia, New Zealand and the USA.
What food goes well with Arneis?
Arneis is a typical aperitif wine that goes well with nuts and canapés with trout mousse or perfectly accompanies vitello tonnato. In Italy, Arneis is cultivated on about 970 hectares in Piedmont, where it is processed as a single variety in the DOCG Roero Arneis.