Who We Are

The Bottega del Vino is established in Nizza Monferrato – a think tank and meeting place for local producers, brought together around key figures such as Tullio Mussa (then president of the Bottega) and oenologist Giuliano Noè. It’s here that the first discussions begin: laying the groundwork for the appellation’s basic regulations, with the goal of giving the wine “Nizza” a clear, high-quality identity.

The first official recognition arrives with the creation of the “Nizza” subzone within Barbera d’Asti Superiore DOC (Ministerial Decree of 13/10/2000) – a first step toward independence, thanks to the efforts of an initial core of producers.

The Associazione Produttori del Nizza is formally established, with the aim of promoting the wine and strengthening its connection to its land. Founding members: Michele Chiarlo, Bruno Ciocca, Antonino Baldizzone, Tullio Mussa, Giovanni Bertolino, Giuliano Noè, and Pier Luigi Rivella. From the outset, a structured and collaborative forum is established among producers, supported by four expert advisors with deep knowledge of fine wines. A blind tasting of Nizza wines is conducted before bottling, with a clear objective: to pursue quality improvement in a rigorous, uncompromising way.

The Bottega del Vino becomes an Enoteca Regionale – a regional wine center – and continues working in close partnership with the Association.

The “Nizza” subzone receives DOCG status as Barbera d’Asti Superiore “Nizza”.

The Association begins the process of establishing Nizza DOCG as an independent denomination.

With the new harvest, Nizza DOCG becomes official, separating from Barbera d’Asti. The new production rules introduce the Riserva category and allow vineyard names on the label. The first wines produced under these rules become available starting 1 July 2016.

The first Nizza DOCG wines are released on the market: 35 producers, 315,000 bottles.

The Association works with Enogea, led by Alessandro Masnaghetti, to produce the first official vineyard map of Nizza DOCG. The map defines the hills as unified geographic areas, using traditional names and historical boundaries handed down through local memory – laying the foundation for the future recognition of crus.

Membership grows to 50 producers. Production increases and quality continues to gain attention.

Production exceeds one million bottles, with a 27% increase over 2022.

Production reaches 1,093,893 bottles – a further 5.2% increase from the previous year. Work continues on incorporating Additional Geographical Mentions into the production rules, further strengthening the link between the wine and its land of origin. The Association now includes 95 producers – a sign of a denomination in constant evolution. Since 2016, the number of labels has grown from 35 to more than 170, including Nizza and Nizza Riserva.