Villa Irene Langhe sits in Monforte d'Alba, one of the eleven communes of the Barolo DOCG production zone. From here, the most celebrated Barolo producers are minutes away — and we have spent years getting to know them. This is our personal guide to the wineries we recommend, organised by village, with practical tips on how to visit.
What is Barolo
Barolo is a red wine produced exclusively from Nebbiolo grapes in eleven communes in the province of Cuneo, Piemonte. It is often called the King of Italian Wines — complex, powerful, and capable of ageing for decades. The eleven communes each produce wines with distinct character: Monforte d'Alba and Serralunga tend toward power and structure; La Morra and Barolo village toward elegance and perfume.
Visiting the wineries where Barolo is born — in the cellars, among the barriques, with the winemakers themselves — is one of the most authentic experiences the Langhe can offer.
Wineries we recommend in Monforte d'Alba
Monforte d'Alba is where Villa Irene Langhe is located. The commune is known for powerful, long-lived Barolos from crus such as Bussia, Ginestra and Mosconi.
- Conterno Fantino — one of the most acclaimed estates in Monforte, known for their Bussia and Ginestra crus. Visits by appointment.
- Aldo Conterno — a legendary name in Barolo. The Bussia vineyard produces some of the most celebrated bottles in the appellation. Visits by appointment.
- Giacomo Fenocchio — family estate with roots going back to 1864. Excellent Bussia and Cannubi. Warm, welcoming atmosphere.
- Rocche dei Manzoni — one of the most innovative estates in the Langhe, combining Barolo with international varieties. Beautiful cellar.
- Massucco — smaller, family-run estate. Authentic and unpretentious, ideal for those who want a genuine cellar experience.
Wineries we recommend in Barolo village and surroundings
The village of Barolo gives its name to the wine and is home to some of the most iconic producers, as well as the WiMu wine museum inside Castello Falletti.
- Paolo Scavino — modern style, precise and elegant. The Bricco Ammazzafattore and Cannubi are reference bottles.
- Cordero di Montezemolo — historic estate in La Morra, with the Monfalletto vineyard producing one of the most refined Barolos in the appellation.
- Oddero — traditional style, deep roots in the territory. Excellent Vigna Rionda from Serralunga.
- Sordo — family estate with vineyards across multiple communes. Great overview of the different Barolo terroirs in a single tasting.
Wineries we recommend in La Morra and Roero
La Morra sits on the highest hills of the Barolo zone and is known as the balcony of the Langhe. Its wines tend to be more aromatic and approachable in their youth.
- Ciabot Berton — small family estate in La Morra producing elegant, fragrant Barolos. Highly recommended for first-time visitors.
- Rocche di Costamagna — biodynamic producer with vineyards in the Rocche dell'Annunziata cru, one of the most celebrated in La Morra.
- Malvirà — one of the best producers in the Roero, across the Tanaro river. Excellent Arneis and Nebbiolo d'Alba alongside the Barolo.
Wineries we recommend in Barbaresco and the eastern Langhe
Barbaresco, produced from Nebbiolo in the communes of Barbaresco, Neive and Treiso, is the other great wine of the Langhe — often described as the Queen to Barolo's King.
- Cà del Baio — family estate in Treiso producing benchmark Barbarescos. The Asili and Vallegrande crus are exceptional.
- Albino Rocca — classic Barbaresco producer in Barbaresco village. Traditional style, great consistency across vintages.
- Astemia Pentita — more contemporary approach, excellent value. Good entry point for those new to Barbaresco.
How to visit Barolo wineries — practical tips
Always book in advance. Most estates require an appointment, especially the smaller family-run ones. We can arrange visits on behalf of our guests.
Visit in the morning. Palates are fresher and winemakers often have more time before lunch service.
Start with La Morra or Barolo village if you are new to the appellation — the wines are more immediately approachable. Move to Monforte and Serralunga when you want more structure and complexity.
Ask about vintages. The winemaker will tell you which years to focus on. Generally, 2016, 2019 and 2021 are considered exceptional recent vintages.
Drive, don't cycle for winery visits — the tastings are generous. Plan one or two wineries per day, not five.
Where to stay for Barolo winery visits
Villa Irene Langhe is ideally located for exploring the Barolo zone — in Monforte d'Alba, 5 minutes from the village, 15 minutes from Alba and within 20 minutes of all eleven Barolo communes.
We arrange private winery visits for our guests on request — tailored to your interests, experience level and the time you have available.