Ghemme DOCG Wine Fair

The Wine Fair in the Ricetto of Ghemme

Every spring, between late April and early May, the village of Ghemme (Province of Novara, Piedmont) transforms into the wine capital of the Novara Hills. The Ghemme DOCG Wine Fair is one of the longest-running and most beloved wine exhibitions in the region: a tradition renewed for over half a century, organized with passion by the Pro Loco of Ghemme.

The heart of the event beats inside the medieval Ricetto, one of the best-preserved fortified structures in Piedmont, and specifically in the evocative Cortile della Barciocca. Strolling through the cobblestone streets of the Ricetto with a glass in hand, as the sunset light caresses the ancient bricks, is an experience that alone makes the trip to Ghemme worthwhile.

Ghemme DOCG, a great Piedmontese red

The absolute star is the Ghemme DOCG, a red wine made mainly from Nebbiolo grapes (locally known as Spanna), which has earned the prestigious Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita status. During the fair, the DOCG cellar is managed by sommeliers who guide visitors in discovering the wines of Ghemme and Piedmont, with curated tastings and free access to the guided tasting area.

Alongside the great reds, there is space for wines from the Novara Hills and a rich selection of typical local products: cured meats, cheeses, and specialties of Piedmontese cuisine, perfect for accompanying the tasting and extending the conviviality into the evening.

Conviviality and culture

The Fair is not just about tasting: it is a communal event that involves the entire Ghemme community. The evenings come alive with background music, cultural moments, and side initiatives designed for families and enthusiasts. The event is part of the broader Novara and Lakes Food District project, confirming the role of wine as a driver for promoting the Novara territory.

For those visiting Piedmont in search of authentic experiences, far from the most crowded routes, the Ghemme Wine Fair is the ideal opportunity to discover a corner of Italy where wine is still a community ritual.