If you're looking for an experience that combines wine, history, and a touch of timeless wonder, Cantine Balbiano is a discovery worth the trip.
Nestled in the hills near Chieri, this historic winery immediately surprises with its production approach: alongside traditional barrels, there are modern steel structures and captivating concrete vats, a technical choice that preserves the authenticity of the wine without altering its aromatic profile with added tannins. It's a perfect balance between tradition and innovation, clearly explained throughout the tour.
But what truly makes this experience unique is the incredible toy museum commissioned by Franco Balbiano. A surprising, vast collection spanning the 20th and 19th centuries, so rich it could fill an entire farmhouse. A journey down memory lane that engages in an original dialogue with the wine: each label in the winery is embellished with a vintage toy, creating a fascinating narrative thread between taste and nostalgia.
The tour concludes with a generous and thoughtful tasting: five wines paired with local specialties such as breadsticks, cured meats, and cheeses, followed by a sweet finish with torcetti and corn biscuits. To top it all off, a grappa and a chinato leave a warm and lingering memory.
The real added value, however, is the guide: Alessia. Young, knowledgeable, and deeply passionate, she manages to transform the tour into an engaging and unpredictable story. Thanks to her energy and expertise, over two hours fly by without a moment of boredom.
A complete, authentic, and surprising experience, sure to captivate both wine enthusiasts and those simply looking for something different.
First of all, the Balbiano winery is a truly magical place, immersed, from the moment you enter, in a place where the atmosphere and attention to detail are immediately palpable. I'd like to say a word about the excellent guide, Alessia, who—beautiful, talented, and knowledgeable—led us throughout the tour and conveyed her genuine love for the winery's work. We went with a smartbox that included a tasting of five excellent Freisa wines (including an excellent and unexpected Rosé, truly remarkable) and a platter of salami and cheese. Everything was very good and excellent. The "Toy Museum" was also interesting and noteworthy, a testament to the owner's (Giancarlo?) passion for collecting. In conclusion, it was a wonderful experience that we will definitely repeat! Daniele and Gio'
This is a fascinating visit, full of surprises and delicious wine. Our guide Alessia was excellent and friendly and great fun. We bought a case of wine and will hopefully return with members of our wine club. it's easy to get there from Turin on the 017 bus - it costs about 4 € each way and you can pay the driver.
