Piedmont captivates every connoisseur for several reasons: the breathtaking landscape, exceptional culinary offerings, and, of course, the exquisite wines.

While Barolo and Barbaresco wines made from the Nebbiolo grape immediately come to mind, other varieties like Barbera and Dolcetto also shine. Most of these Crus pair beautifully with truffle dishes — especially fitting as the white truffle is now in season.

Boutique Hotel in a Historic Manor House

A great location for a Piedmont stay is the Sunstar Hotel Piemont (image above) in Isola d’Asti. This boutique hotel, housed in a manor built in 1650, balances tradition and modernity. Guests feel comfortable and can enjoy a diverse wine list in the hotel's two restaurants featuring regional cuisine.

The hotel is part of the Swiss hotel group Sunstar, which is primarily owned by Peter Grogg, founder and major shareholder of Bachem. Under the leadership of CEO Silvio Schoch, Bachem has undergone a strategic realignment in recent years.

Home to the Big Names

What stands out first about the oenological offerings is that they consist solely of wines from Piedmont. There are over 300 different wines available from most appellations in the region. Naturally, the Langhe, home to the big names, dominates. However, lesser-known areas such as Roero and Monferrato also have much to offer.

The selection of white wines is somewhat limited, but this is due to Piedmont being primarily a red wine region. A delightful start to a pleasurable evening could be with a Roero Arneis 2022 from Matteo Correggia (€35) or a Gavi 2022 from the well-known producer Michele Chiarlo (also €35).

The Dilemma of Choice

Guests face a delightful dilemma (image below) with the red wines. For Nebbiolo enthusiasts, the Gattinara Riserva 2017 from the Travaglini estate is worth trying. It comes from the lesser-known northern appellation of Gattinara, and at €58, it’s fairly priced. Barolos and Barbarescos are more expensive, such as the matured, complex, elegant, and well-balanced Barolo 2013 from the Azelia estate—a perfect expression of the Nebbiolo grape, sourced from two municipalities (€69).

You can also find the standout Barbaresco Rabaja 2018 from Bruno Rocca (€112) and the Barolo Mosconi 2014 from Chiara Boschis (€122). For a truly luxurious choice, the Barolo Runcot Riserva 2015 from Elio Grasso stands out. Though priced at €245, its depth, richness, and craftmanship make it a memorable indulgence well worth the expense.

For Barbera, consider the Barbera d’Asti Superiore Alfieri 2021 from the Marchesi Alfieri estate (€48) or the «Bansella» 2020 from Antinori's Prunotto winery, which is a modest €35.

With a Dram View

The wines can be enjoyed in a quiet, serene area. The boutique hotel is beautifully situated on a hill with a stunning view of the surroundings. Sunstar offers 27 different rooms in five categories, with prices ranging from CHF 200 to 300 per night, including breakfast, depending on the season and demand.

Guests benefit from a team of long-serving employees, and when assistance is needed, the hotel director steps in personally.

A Journey Around the World

Swiss hotelier Peter Müller (image above), has been managing the hotel with skill and dedication for 14 years. His journey to this role was serendipitous, after a career that took him around the globe—from the Caribbean and cruise ships to a luxury hotel in Zanzibar.

A stay at the Sunstar Hotel Piemont is worthwhile for various reasons, not least of which is its prime location. Guests can easily explore the nearby towns of Alba and Asti, as well as the celebrated vineyards of Barolo and Barbaresco. What more couldone wish for in this renowned wine region?