Savor the millenary story of Erbaluce di Caluso, the iconic white wine of Canavese. A journey through myth, terroir, and cellars waiting to be discovered.
When Wine Tells the Story of a Landscape
Some wines speak of a place better than any guidebook. Erbaluce di Caluso is one of them. This indigenous white grape thrives on the moraine hills between Lake Viverone and Caluso, where ancient glaciers left behind unique soils, and sunlight reflected off the water ensures perfect ripening.
In every glass, Erbaluce captures the very soul of the Canavese: ancient, proud, radiant.
But this is more than just a fine white wine — it’s a legend, a story of adaptability, and a promise of authenticity.
The Myth of Albaluce: Legend and Vineyards
The nymph who brought light to the hills
According to legend, Albaluce was a radiant nymph, daughter of the Sun and Dawn. Her gaze made the earth bloom, and the hills around the lake worshipped her as the goddess of light.
When tragedy struck her people, Albaluce wept so deeply that vines sprung from her tears, heavy with golden grapes. Thus was born Erbaluce — the wine of light, a symbol of hope and renewal.
A myth that lives on in every sip, transforming each tasting into a poetic ritual.
From Ancient Roots to Recognition: The History of Excellence
A wine as old as Piedmont itself
Historical records of Erbaluce date back to the 1600s, though it’s believed the grape was cultivated in the wild during Roman times.
In 1967, it became the first white wine in Piedmont to receive DOC status, and in 2010 it was awarded the prestigious DOCG label — a testament to its quality and heritage.
Three expressions of one grape:
Erbaluce di Caluso (still): fresh, mineral, with floral and citrus aromas.
Erbaluce Spumante: made using the traditional method, elegant and persistent — ideal for aperitifs.
Caluso Passito: the crown jewel. Made from dried grapes, it offers notes of honey, dried fruit, and spices. Capable of aging for over 20 years.
A Unique Moraine Terroir
The hills around Caluso, Piverone, and Viverone are part of the ancient **Ivrea morainic amphitheater**, a rare ecosystem in Europe.
Rocky soils, ideal sun exposure, and strong temperature variations give Erbaluce its lively acidity, deep bouquet, and incredible aging potential.
The nearby Lake Viverone moderates the climate and enhances light reflection — the very origin of the name *Erbaluce*, or *light among the herbs*.
Wineries to Visit Around the Lake
**Cantina della Serra – Piverone**
Founded in 1953 by Adriano Olivetti, this cooperative winery is a symbol of Canavese viticulture. It produces all Erbaluce styles, including award-winning sparkling wines and contemplative passitos. Offers tastings and guided tours among vineyards and barrel cellars.
**Orsolani – Caluso**
A historic, family-run winery now in its fourth generation. Known for the “Sulè” passito and for elevating Erbaluce to a full-meal gastronomic wine.
**Tenuta Roletto – Cuceglio**
Set on scenic hills, this estate offers all Erbaluce styles and immersive tours through vineyards and mythology, paired with tastings and local delicacies.
A Glass of Light in the Canavese Hills
Sipping a glass of Erbaluce on the shores of **Lake Viverone** is like breathing in the story of the land — letting the light dance through the leaves and hearing legends whispered among the vines.
It’s an experience to savor slowly, especially at sunset, when sky and wine melt into the same golden hue.
Curious to discover how **Adriano Olivetti** linked his dream of community to these very hills?
In the next article, we’ll explore the bond between social innovation, winemaking, and landscape.
Stay with me and uncover a Piedmont you never expected.
Until next time!
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