Ah, the captivating history of Arneis, a tale as intriguing as a passage from Jerome’s “Three Men in a Boat.” Wine historians find themselves at odds, like bumbling companions navigating a river, debating the origins and names of this enchanting grape in the Piedmont region. 

While Arneis shares synonyms with other grapes, it stands alone genetically, far removed from its crimson cousin, Nebbiolo. 

However, a historic kinship ties the two together, a companionship as enduring as the friendships forged in the boat. Centuries ago, Arneis, the white grape, played a vital role in the Barolo region, charmingly softening the tannins and rough edges of Nebbiolo wines. 

It was the Robin to Nebbiolo’s Batman, the secret ingredient that brought balance and harmony to the cape-clad hero. 

Known as Nebbiolo Bianco or “white Barolo,” Arneis was interplanted with Nebbiolo, its alluring scent tempting birds away from the coveted Nebbiolo clusters, a cunning plan hatched in the vineyards. 

But as the 20th century dawned and Barolo producers turned their attention to 100% Nebbiolo wines, Arneis faced an uncertain fate. It teetered on the precipice of extinction, like a wobbly boat in turbulent waters. 

Yet, like a phoenix rising from the ashes, the 1970s witnessed the valiant efforts of two producers, Bruno Giacosa and Vietti, keeping the flame of Arneis alive. Then, like a glorious sunrise after a storm, the 1980s arrived, igniting a renaissance of interest in white wines of Piedmont. 

Plantings of Arneis surged, breathing new life into this once-endangered variety. By the year 2000, its presence graced 745 hectares of vineyards, a testament to its resilience and charm. 

Yet, like the ebb and flow of the tides, the number of plantings experienced a modest decline by 2006, settling at around 610 hectares. Still, the heart of Arneis beats strong in the Roero and Langhe regions of Piedmont, where it continues to captivate and enchant all who encounter its delicate beauty.

Taste this wonderful white today.

You can order it here.

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