Nizza Docg

Terroir

Nizza DOCG is rooted in hilly terrain, sitting between 150 and 350 metres above sea level, in broad, shallow valleys.

These hills began forming around five million years ago, when the area was submerged under a warm, subtropical sea teeming with marine life – mollusks, crustaceans, whales, and sharks, whose presence is still echoed today in the millions of visible fossil remains embedded in the soil.

As the sea gradually receded between three and one million years ago, the seabed lifted, giving rise to the hills we know today. The decalcification of shells and bones gave way to calcium-rich soils, with naturally alkaline pH levels, partially balanced by the acidity of the sands. This interaction between ancient marine elements has shaped a landscape of extraordinary geodiversity – one that underpins the region’s rich agricultural biodiversity.

In some areas, the soil welcomes deep root penetration. In others, where compact marl (tufo) emerges – the very “backbone” of the hills – the subsoil is shallower but no less vital to the plant’s development.

Solis Map

I SUOLI

01

Sandy and loose soils (from coarse marine deposits, weakly consolidated)

Where: Vinchio, Cortiglione, Incisa Scapaccino, Mombercelli, Mombaruzzo

Features: These soils are low in organic matter and modest in fertility, with limited capacity to retain water and moisture. Due to their sandy texture, they warm quickly in spring, leading to early bud break. Natural irrigation is limited, and in particularly hot or dry years, the vines undergo water stress, resulting in earlier harvests and smaller yields. The resulting wines are elegant, with lighter colour tones (purplish-red), lower structural intensity, and more delicate, refined aromas.

Impact on the wines: Light, fresh wines with less imposing structure but marked elegance – ready to drink young.

02

Silty-loam and sandy-loam soils (from fine or coarse marine deposits, weakly consolidated)

Where: Castelnuovo Calcea, Agliano Terme, Mombercelli, Nizza Monferrato, Castelnuovo Belbo, Mombaruzzo

Features: These soils are moderately fertile and compact, with a better capacity for moisture retention than sandy soils. The sand content still allows the surface to warm quickly, promoting early bud break. The combination of silt and sand results in more intense colour tones and a moderate structure. These soils cope better with drought, and in warm years, harvests occur early but are never excessive.

Impact on the wines: Wines with moderate structure, more intense and fruit-forward aromas, and good ageing potential. Well suited to express the balance between freshness and intensity.

03

Silty-loam and clay soils (from fine marine deposits, weakly consolidated)

Where: Agliano Terme, Moasca, San Marzano Oliveto, Castel Rocchero, Castel Boglione, Nizza Monferrato

Features: Clay soils are compact and mineral-rich, with strong water and heat retention. These characteristics help vines withstand dry, hot periods and allow them to ripen slowly and steadily. Depth is generally good, though the presence of limestone may limit the absorption of certain nutrients. The resulting wines are deeply coloured (ruby red), with complex aromas and firm structure, ideal for ageing.

Impact on the wines: Structured wines with good aromatic complexity and solid alcohol content – well suited to long ageing. Harvests are later than on other soils but bring more generous yields and higher quality.

04

Sandy-loam and silty soils (from coarse, consolidated marine deposits)

Where: Calamandrana, Castel Boglione, Rocchetta Palafea

Features: These soils combine sand and silt, offering good depth and medium moisture retention. Though not among the most fertile, they provide strong resistance to drought and high temperatures. Their structure supports balanced grape ripening, though harvests tend to occur earlier than on clay-rich soils. Fertility is moderate, and organic matter retention is low. The resulting wines are elegant, moderately intense, and with solid alcohol levels.

Impact on the wines: Balanced wines with a fine structure – enjoyable in youth, but with ageing potential.

Climate

The Nizza DOCG production area enjoys the kind of soil and climate conditions that have made this part of Piedmont a benchmark in the world of wine.

To the north, the Alps form a natural barrier that protects the zone from cold winds and helps maintain a milder winter. They also create a strong day–night temperature range – essential for balanced ripening and aromatic development. The valleys here are wide and shallow, which ensures excellent natural ventilation. That keeps humidity in check and lowers the risk of fungal disease.

People

The human element is one of the key forces that shape the distinct identity of a wine – and of a denomination.

Terroir isn’t just about soil or climate. It’s shaped by decades of choices made in the vineyard, by traditions passed down through generations, by knowledge that deepens over time. Every decision – from vineyard care to harvest timing – grows out of a close relationship between the land and those who tend it. The ability to understand the soil, to respond to its character, is what marks the difference between a good wine and a great one.

The true strength of an appellation lies in its people – those who built it, who live it every day, and who continue to carry it forward.

Producers