
EXPLORING THE CULINARY EXCELLENCE OF PIEMONTE, ITALY
Wine & Food, Piemonte Travel | December 2024

A Gastronomic Journey Through Italy’s Hidden Gem
Nestled in the northwestern corner of Italy, Piemonte (Piedmont) is a haven for food enthusiasts seeking authentic flavours, exceptional wines, and age-old culinary traditions. Known for its rolling vineyards, truffle-rich forests, and mouthwatering dishes, this region offers a gastronomic experience like no other. Let’s delve into the flavours and traditions that make Piemonte a culinary treasure.
The Land of Wine and Truffles
Piemonte is synonymous with world-class wines. The rolling hills of Langhe, Roero, and Monferrato produce some of Italy’s finest vintages, including Barolo, Barbaresco, and Nebbiolo. These wines pair perfectly with the region’s celebrated cuisine, making every meal an experience to savour.
The region’s truffles, particularly the white truffle of Alba, are sought after worldwide for their earthy, intoxicating aroma. Truffle hunting is a time-honoured tradition here, and autumn is the best season to sample these culinary gems at local fairs or gourmet restaurants.


Find out about our 8 day truffle and porcini cookery courses that we run here at the Castello between September and November. We will hold an optional morning truffle hunt during these courses, included in the course itinerary. Led by our experienced truffle hunter, Pier Angelo with his faithful hound, you will explore the beautiful nearby ancient woods and meadows for the elusive white truffle. And remember – Finders Keepers!
Signature Dishes of Piemonte
Piemonte’s cuisine is a rich tapestry of flavours, rooted in simplicity and quality ingredients. Here are some iconic dishes that you must try:
Vitello Tonnato
A unique appetizer featuring thinly sliced veal topped with a creamy, tangy sauce made from tuna, capers, and anchovies.
Tajarin
These delicate, golden strands of egg pasta are often served with a luxurious butter sauce or shaved truffles.
Bagna Cauda
A warm dip made from garlic, anchovies, and olive oil, served with fresh vegetables for dipping—a true Piemonte classic.
Agnolotti del Plin
Small, hand-pinched ravioli stuffed with a flavorful meat filling, often served with sage butter or a meat sauce.
Bollito Misto
A traditional boiled meat dish featuring various cuts of beef and veal, accompanied by zesty green sauces.
The Slow Food Movement
Piemonte is the heart of the Slow Food Movement, which began in the town of Bra. This philosophy celebrates sustainable, locally sourced, and traditional food practices. Many of the region’s restaurants and producers proudly uphold these principles, ensuring every meal is a testament to Piemonte’s rich heritage.
We’d Love to Hear from You!
Have you had the pleasure of experiencing the incredible flavours of Piemonte? Which dishes or traditions left the biggest impression on you? Or perhaps you’re planning a visit and have questions about what to see, taste, or explore.
We’re Christopher and Kaarina Watkins, hosts of Castello di Montalero, and we’d love to hear from you! Feel free to reach out directly for personalised tips on discovering the best of Piemonte. Whether it’s wine, truffles, or local traditions, we’re always delighted to share our insights and passion for this magical region.

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