Aperitivi Culturali
The literary presentation series in Cortemilia, in the heart of the Alta Langa
About Aperitivi Culturali
A literary series in the heart of the Alta Langa
Aperitivi Culturali has become a staple of the cultural life in Cortemilia, a village in the Alta Langa area of the Cuneo province, in Piedmont. Organized by the Municipality of Cortemilia in collaboration with the Liberi Tutti bookstore, the series features a range of encounters where authors and writers present their latest works to the public, followed by a social gathering for conversation and drinks.
The event format
Each session takes place in the Cortemilia Town Hall Council Chamber, typically at 7:00 PM. After the book presentation and a direct Q&A with the author—who shares the story behind the work and the creative process—the evening continues with an aperitif or a friendly toast in a relaxed, informal atmosphere. This unique blend of culture and conviviality is what gives the event its name and has built a loyal following among local readers.
The 2026 season
The 2026 edition kicked off on Friday, April 10th with Chiara Ferraris, who presented her novel La signora del neroli, a journey through the scents and atmospheres of a bygone era tied to the Mediterranean tradition of neroli essence. The series continued on Thursday, June 11th with Cinzia Pennati and her novel Questioni di famiglia, the story of Amanda de Santis and the secrets that resurface during her parents' golden wedding anniversary celebrations. Further events are scheduled throughout the year.
Past guest authors
Over the years, the series has hosted numerous voices from contemporary Italian fiction, including Nicoletta Verna, winner of the Premio Manzoni, Anna Vera Viva, Raffaella Romagnolo, and many others. The meetings are often introduced by Annalisa Beccuti and enhanced by dramatic readings performed by local readers and actors.
Cortemilia and the Alta Langa
Known as the capital of the Tonda Gentile hazelnut, Cortemilia is one of the most characteristic villages in the Alta Langa, a land of UNESCO-recognized vineyard landscapes. Attending Aperitivi Culturali is also a perfect opportunity to discover this corner of Piedmont, its traditions, and its hospitality, all within the intimate and historic setting of the town's council chamber.
Aperitivi Culturali — edition 2026
The 2026 edition of the Aperitivi Culturali in Cortemilia upheld the event's signature format: a book presentation, a dialogue with the author, and a final convivial toast in the Town Hall Council Chamber.
The meetings
- Friday, April 10th, 7:00 PM — Chiara Ferraris presents La signora del neroli, a novel filled with scents and atmospheres of the past, linked to the neroli essence and Mediterranean traditions.
- Thursday, June 11th, 7:00 PM — Cinzia Pennati presents Questioni di famiglia, the story of Amanda de Santis, her children, and the secrets that resurface during her parents' golden wedding anniversary.
The series, organized by the Municipality of Cortemilia with the Liberi Tutti bookstore, includes additional events throughout the year.
Programme Aperitivi Culturali 2026
2026 Program
- April 10th, 7:00 PM — Chiara Ferraris, La signora del neroli (Town Hall Council Chamber)
- June 11th, 7:00 PM — Cinzia Pennati, Questioni di famiglia (Town Hall Council Chamber)
- Additional events scheduled throughout the year
Highlights Aperitivi Culturali 2026
- Meetings with contemporary Italian fiction authors
- Direct dialogue with writers and a final convivial toast
- Partnership with the Liberi Tutti bookstore
Prices Aperitivi Culturali 2026
Practical information — Aperitivi Culturali
Location
The meetings are held in the Council Chamber of the Municipality of Cortemilia (CN), in Piedmont, in the heart of the Alta Langa.
When
Events are distributed throughout the year, usually starting at 7:00 PM. The 2026 edition held its first meetings on April 10th and June 11th, with more dates to follow.
Admission
Admission is free and open to the public; a convivial toast follows each event. For information and to confirm attendance, it is recommended to contact the Municipality of Cortemilia or the Liberi Tutti bookstore.
Getting there
Cortemilia can be reached by car via the A6 Turin-Savona motorway (exits towards the Langhe) or the A33 Asti-Cuneo motorway. The nearest train stations are in Alba or Acqui Terme, which are connected to the town by provincial roads.
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Where does it take place — Aperitivi Culturali
Sala del Consiglio del Comune di Cortemilia