🎧Ep 250 – Beyond Nebbiolo: Nascetta, Pelaverga, Freisa & The Hidden Gems of the Langhe with Agnese Gintere

by | Feb 25, 2026 | Uncategorized | 0 comments

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After diving deep into Nebbiolo in Episode 248, Janina knew it was time to go further into Piemonte – but this time beyond Barolo and Barbaresco. In this episode, she’s joined by Baltic wine expert and educator Agnese Gintere to explore the lesser-known indigenous grapes of the Langhe. From the so-called “white Barolo” Nascetta to Pelaverga, Freisa, Dolcetto, Barbera, Arneis and Favorita, this is a love letter to the region’s unsung heroes. Expect producer recommendations, travel tips, value alternatives to Barolo – and yes, a little Nebbiolo obsession too.   04:04 Why Langhe? The recent rise of Barolo & Barbaresco and why the region feels magical. 06:04 Falling in love with Langhe – the wines first, then the fog, hills and landscape. 08:33 If not Nebbiolo, then what? The real unsung hero grapes of Langhe. 10:31 Nascetta explained – the so-called “white Barolo” and its revival from near extinction. 12:45 What Agnese learned about Nascetta’s history and ageing potential. 15:05 Pelaverga – the sommelier’s insider grape with earthy, herbal character. 17:17 Pelaverga experimentation – sparkling styles and white versions. 18:53 Freisa – Nebbiolo’s close relative and its quiet revival. 23:27 Dolcetto – “little sweet one” or gentle hills? Style, structure and best areas to explore. 26:45 Dogliani DOCG, ageing potential and value bottles. 28:47 Barbera – plush fruit, high alcohol and the future of north-facing slopes. 31:49 Link to Janina’s previous podcast episode (Ep 166) featuring Braida (Barbera specialists). 33:12 Respecting terroir – why Barbera and Nebbiolo shouldn’t compete for the same vineyard sites. 33:46 White grapes of Langhe – Arneis vs Favorita (aka Vermentino). 37:05 Agnese’s must-visit place – Serralunga d’Alba and the magic of the hills. 39:51 Best-value Nebbiolo outside Barolo & Barbaresco – Roero, Gattinara and Ghemme. 41:08 A magical winery visit – Enrico Rivetto and other iconic estates. 41:33 Estates mentioned – Rivetto, Gaja and Aldo Conterno. 44:06 Best time to visit Langhe – truffle season vs early autumn. 46:17 If you could only drink one non-Nebbiolo Langhe wine – Grignolino (“baby Nebbiolo”). 49:42 Next week – Switzerland, Chasselas, Petit Arvine and DNA expert JosĂ© Vouillamoz.   Watch Agnese’s YouTube Channel No Sediment HERE. đŸ“© Questions or feedback? janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📾 Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat đŸŽ„ YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk Cheers to you đŸ„‚   THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST Featured in Decanter Magazine and Radio Times, and ranked among the Top UK Wine Podcasts by Feedspot. RECOGNITION: – Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025) – Shortlisted, IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication (2025) – Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing’s Most Influential People in Drinks list  

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