Erbaluce Grape Festival

A festival nearly a century old

The Erbaluce Grape Festival is the signature event of the Municipality of Caluso, in the province of Turin, located in the heart of the Piedmontese Canavese. Born in 1933 and first organized in 1934 to celebrate the grape harvest, it is now one of the longest-running and most heartfelt food and wine events in Piedmont. Every year, around the third Sunday of September, the entire town transforms into a grand stage dedicated to wine, folk traditions, and local pride.

Erbaluce di Caluso: the absolute star

At the heart of the festival is Erbaluce di Caluso, the native grape variety that produces three historic local wines: Erbaluce di Caluso, Caluso Spumante, and the exquisite Caluso Passito. All received DOC status in 1967 and were awarded the prestigious DOCG designation in 2010. During the event, a jury awards the Grappolo d'Oro (Golden Bunch) to the best local wines, while the "DiVino Canavese" tasting stands allow visitors to discover labels from local producers.

The Palio dei Rioni and the Ninfa Albaluce

The most authentic soul of the festival lies in the challenge between the five historic districts (Pescarolo, Rua, Freta, Riva, and Rosario) and the hamlets of Caluso (Arè, Rodallo, Vallo, and Carolina), who compete for the Palio dei Rioni with allegorical floats, parades, and skill trials. The Sunday highlight is the proclamation of the Ninfa Albaluce, a mythological figure and ambassador of the town who embodies the very spirit of the event.

The 'veje piole' and the historic center's atmosphere

Among the most evocative experiences are the veje piole, ancient cellars and taverns in the historic center that reopen their doors to offer a food and wine journey featuring traditional dishes paired with glasses of Erbaluce. Evenings are enlivened by concerts, tribute shows, DJ sets, cocktail bars, and entertainment for younger crowds, creating a festive atmosphere that brings all generations together.

An event for the whole community

Organized by the A.P.S.T. Pro Loco of Caluso with the support of the Municipality, the Erbaluce Grape Festival is much more than just a food fair: it is the moment when Caluso tells its own story, built on viticulture, craftsmanship, and community spirit. Art exhibitions, street artist performances, local farmers' markets, and the involvement of the historic town band complete a rich and varied program that attracts visitors from across the Canavese and beyond.