Albugnano is a DOC of the Piedmont wine region in north-western Italy. Created in 1997, the title exclusively covers rosso (red) and rosato (rose) wines based on four classic Piedmontese grape varieties: Barbera, Freisa, Nebbiolo and Bonarda.
The DOC is named after the hilltop village of Albugnano, in the very northern corner of the Asti province (home to the famous sparkling whites Moscato d'Asti and Asti Spumante). The village sits at an altitude of 1750ft (535m), ranking it among the highest of Piedmont's wine communes. It is also significantly further inland (60 miles, or 100km) than most other Piedmont vineyard zones, meaning it does not benefit from the moderating effects of a Mediterranean climate. This makes Albugnano one of the coolest terroirs in the region – a fact which is reflected in the crisp, fruit-driven wines made there. The long growing season gives the vines ample time to develop complex phenolic profiles, while also keeping their sugars in balance with their acidity. The fresh, 'tangy' character of Albugnano reds sets them apart from many other Piedmontese wines styles, and they often offer good value for money because their prices are not bolstered by the kind of reputation held by the likes of Barolo and Barbaresco.
Wines labeled as Albugnano Superiore are aged in oak barrels for a minimum of 12 months, and are made under more stringent quality controls. The greater care taken in the winery translates to 'superior' alcohol levels between 0.5% and 1% higher than standard Albugnano Rosso.
