MONFORTE D'ALBA

Monforte is located on the southern edge of the appellation and borders the municipality of Dogliano, known for its Dolcetto.
Monforte shares some of the same soil types as Serralunga, which is why complex Barolo wines are produced here as well. Giacomo Conterno, producer of the most sought-after and expensive Barolo wines, has its home base here.
Monforte has a natural amphitheater where Monforte Jazz, a major musical event in the region, is held every year. The town also features an iconic church: the Parish Church of San Giovanni Battista, which dates back to the 18th century.
Monforte remains relatively undiscovered and is not as much of a tourist draw as Barolo and La Morra, making it a wonderful place to spend some time. The village square on the main road is lively and vibrant. There are numerous good restaurants and two of the better pizzerias in the region. The village also boasts an outdoor swimming pool situated right in the middle of the Barolo vineyards. A unique experience, I must say. On Mondays, there is a local market featuring the most delicious Piedmontese products.

Well-known quality wineries in Monforte include: Giacomo Conterno, Giacomo Fenocchio, Domenico Clerico, and Aldo Conterno.

Things to do in Monforte:

• visit the amphitheater on the roof of the village
• attend a match of pallapugno (Piedmontese handball)
• taste wine at Cascina Sot; a beautiful old cellar and incredibly hospitable
• dine at Trattoria della Posta (a must, book well in advance)
• eat a pizza at InPiazza on the lively square
• shop for older Barolo wines at Vinoland
• swim among the Barolo vineyards at piscina Le Ginestre
• have an aperitivo at the Barolo wine bar