Alto Piemonte is home to a particular sort of wine that doesn't quite exist anywhere else. The vineyards of the large Canavese region are carved onto the eaves of the Alps around the city of Ivria at the mouth of the Valle d’Aoste. This is Nebbiolo country, but where southern Piedmont traditionally makes structured, brooding Nebbiolo, here the wine is as bright as sunlight on a snow capped mountain. The Ferrando family are perhaps the most important winemakers this side of Barolo, responsible for saving the legendary wines of  Carema from total obscurity. While their soaring Carema both deserves and commands prices similar to Barolo, they also produce this charming blend: 65% Nebbiolo, 30% Barbera, and 5% Neretta, picked early and vinified gently to make a clear-headed, crisp red. Aromas here start with juicy black cherry, clay soil, red roses and licorice. The palate offers cherries both red and black, orange peel and pepper, framed by dusty tannins and brimming with cheerful acidity. A classic choice for charcuterie, it will do for just about any weeknight Italian fare.