Visit Cascina Berchi, a stunning rental property in Piedmont wine country within a UNESCO protected area
“Cascina Berchi” is a lovingly restored 19th century farmhouse located in the well-known beautiful village of Fontanile, Piedmont. Fontanile is a hilltop village located in a UNESCO zone surrounded by regional Barbera, Dolcetto, Nebbiolo, Arneis, Chardonnay and Moscato vineyards. Fontanile as its name suggests derives from the latin “Fontanili” meaning “land rich in springs”, the centre of Fontanile dates back to the 4th and 5th centuries AD. Various invasions forced the construction of the fortified hilltop stronghold in the 9th and 10th century. Cascina Berchi is located just outside these original fortifications.
From the rear terrace and balcony of Cascina Berchi you relax and enjoy a spectacular view of north west Italy, casting your eyes over the vast UNESCO protected vineyards of the Monferrato region towards the mountainous French, Italian and Swiss Alpine region. For wine lovers, the world-famous regions of Barolo and Barbaresco are within easy driving distance and the “Nizza DOCG” wine region is immediately at your doorstep. Nizza is comprised of a small group of 18 municipalities that are committed to producing the world’s finest Barbera wines. Barbera has been grown in Piedmont for centuries but it was not until 2014 that the Nizza area officially became Italy’s newest “DOCG” (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita), signifying a commitment to creating high-quality, age-worthy Barbera wines.
Cascina Berchi is ideally located to explore Piedmont. In addition, the Valle d’Aosta, Lombardy (Milan) and Liguria (Italian Riviera) are also easily accessible. Locally the Roman thermal spring town of Acqui Terme is well worth a visit as well as the famous wine producing towns of Alba and Asti. Alba is also known for being the home of the Alba white truffle, a rare culinary treat that only appears in the Fall. Every year in October/November Alba hosts the International White Truffle Festival which is truly a must-see event for foodies. Taking in the scenery, wine tasting and long lunches in any number of beautiful hilltop villages of the Langhe is a special treat.
Piedmont is a relatively unknown hidden paradise in northern Italy with a stunning climate, long warm sunny summers and short crisp and often white winters. Once you have visited it will not be long before you desire to return!
We can suggest interesting day trips, wine tasting tours, perfect restaurants for any occasion, bicycle tours, whatever you desire we will be happy to assist.
We look forward to welcoming you to Cascina Berchi!
Sean & Angela Cochran
