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 José Vouillamoz. Watch Agnese's YouTube Channel No Sediment HERE. 📩 Questions or feedback? janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk Cheers to you 🥂 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
