The long, lush hills which comprise the areas around Barolo and Asti contain some of Italy's best kept secrets. Few areas can compete with the vineyards of this region where the earth brings forth many of Italy's finest wines (Barolo, Barbaresco, Dolcetto), the much prized white and black truffle as well as portobello and porcini mushrooms. To gaze across the landscape, it seems as if the people have been guarding these secrets for centuries as every hilltop is dominated by a medieval castle protecting its small village and church. |