MonferVINUM — Wine Trekking in the Monferrato

A walk through the vineyards of the Monferrato

MonferVINUM is the wine-trekking event created by the Ecomuseo della Pietra da Cantoni to help visitors discover the Monferrato wine landscape on foot. In Ottiglio, a small town in the Province of Alessandria nestled in the UNESCO-listed hills, the tour kicks off from the courtyard of Azienda Vitivinicola Cascina Montecchio, a 21-hectare estate—ten of which are under vine—featuring a farmhouse built from the typical local 'pietra da cantoni' stone.

The route through the vines

The itinerary winds for about 3 kilometers through the rolling hills of the vineyards, where early spring vegetation makes it easy to identify the local grape varieties: Nebbiolo, Barbera, and Grignolino. The trail also includes a short stretch through the woods for a refreshing break before returning to the winery. It is a walk perfect for those who love combining outdoor activity with the discovery of wine and rural culture.

Tastings and local flavors

Along the way and upon return, guided tastings of three of the estate's wines are provided, paired with local products: "Il Custode" Grignolino del Monferrato Casalese DOC, "Carina" Barbera d'Asti DOCG, and "Posapiano" Barbera d'Asti Superiore DOCG. Catering is provided by the Cicin&Barlichin restaurant, while a market featuring crafts and local specialties accompanies the entire day.

Workshops, yoga, and farm-to-table aperitif

MonferVINUM is more than just a walk: the day is enriched with workshops for adults and children, a vineyard yoga session, a wild fermentation workshop, and an evening farm-to-table aperitif that concludes the experience. It is a slow and convivial way to enjoy the Monferrato, amidst nature, flavor, and the traditions of the Casalese area.

The initiative is supported by the Fondazione Cassa di Risparmio di Alessandria and is part of the regional development activities promoted by the Ecomuseo della Pietra da Cantoni, which offers wine-trekking stages in various villages of the Monferrato.