If you’re a fan of Nebbiolo, the sole grape behind Barolo and Barbaresco, you’ll love the radiant, mineral-driven offerings from Alto Piemonte, a region higher up in the Alpine foothills than the “Big Bs.”

Map of Alto Piemonte, ItalyVibrant and loaded with finesse, the best are drop-dead gorgeous, as these varietal Nebbiolos and blends possess ageworthy structures and impeccable balance. While warmer temperatures and drier summers push alcohol levels to extremes in other areas, that’s not often a problem in Alto Piemonte. Vineyard altitudes, cooler temperatures and acidic soils make it rare to find wines that exceed 14% abv.