Arnad-Montjovet DOC

A little further up from Donnas, the valley keeps the same grape: Nebbiolo. Arnad-Montjovet is Donnas’s neighbour, with looser rules and an often softer wine. A red that tastes of the stone terraces of the middle valley.

On both banks of the Dora

Seven villages share the vineyards, from Hône to Montjovet: Hône, Arnad, Issogne, Champdepraz and Montjovet on one side of the Dora; Arnad, Verrès, Challand-Saint-Victor and Montjovet on the other. Vines climb to 600 metres on the right bank and 700 metres on the left. Many plots have kept their dry-stone terraces.

Softer than Donnas: at least 70% nebbiolo

Nebbiolo must make up at least 70% of the wine; other red grapes from the valley complete the blend. Five months’ ageing is enough before sale. For the “supérieur” label, it needs twelve.

In the glass

Ruby red with garnet glints, a hint of almond on the nose, a round palate ending on a light bitterness.

At the table

Lard d’Arnad, of course, but also cured meats, roasts, polenta and the valley’s cheeses.

Maps: personal work by Marc Badjou.