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Arneis—a captivating and elegant white grape from the Piedmont region of Italy. In the local dialect, its name translates to "little rascal," perfectly reflecting its capricious nature in the vineyard. However, the winemakers who master this variety create true masterpieces. This white wine is a true refreshment alongside the heavy red wines of Piedmont. In the glass, Arneis delights with subtle aromas of spring flowers, chamomile, white peaches, and pears, accompanied by a signature, slightly savory almond finish. It is an exceptionally soft, round, and gastronomic wine, ideal both as an aperitif and with delicate dishes of Italian cuisine.
White dry
Italy
Arneis has an incredible history. Back in the 1970s, this grape was on the brink of extinction, with only a few hectares left in the vineyards. Fortunately, a few passionate Piedmont winemakers revived the variety, and today it shines proudly in its best places of origin:
Roero (Roero Arneis DOCG): This is the undisputed home of Arneis. The sandy soils of this region (located right next to the famous Barolo) give the grape exceptional florality, freshness, and elegance. According to the appellation rules, these wines are made from 100% Arneis grapes.
Langhe (Langhe Arneis DOC): This broader appellation also produces excellent, often slightly weightier and rounder Arneis wines that perfectly reflect the rich Piedmont terroir.
Arneis is an indispensable companion to Northern Italian cuisine, especially when it comes to lighter appetizers.
An absolute classic and perfect pairing is the traditional Piedmontese dish Vitello Tonnato (thinly sliced veal with a creamy tuna and caper sauce).
This wine also pairs fantastically with spring dishes: asparagus risotto, pasta with pesto or seafood, mild poultry, and fresh, soft cheeses (such as ricotta or Burrata).
The grape was nicknamed by local winemakers due to its temperamental character. Arneis is highly susceptible to disease, its yields are unpredictable, and the berries quickly lose acidity if not harvested at exactly the right time. Growing it and crafting a balanced wine requires great winemaking skill.
In ancient times in Piedmont, Arneis vines were often planted among the prized Nebbiolo vines. This was done for two reasons: the sweet and aromatic Arneis berries attracted birds, thus protecting the valuable Nebbiolo harvest. Additionally, a small amount of these white grapes was sometimes blended into the harsh red wines (such as Barolo) to soften them.
Usually, no. The best qualities of Arneis are its fresh florality and youthful fruit aromas. While some exceptionally high-quality Roero examples can hold up for a few years, it is best to enjoy this wine within the first 1–3 years of the harvest.
