A denomination that has always embodied the identity of the most authentic Barbera of Monferrato has reached a historic milestone: with the decree issued by the Italian Ministero dell’Agricoltura, della Sovranità alimentare e delle Foreste on 22 June 2026, the Nizza DOCG Consorzio has been officially recognised, marking the evolution of the Associazione Produttori del Nizza, founded in 2002.
A recognition that strengthens protection and promotion
This recognition represents a defining moment for one of Piedmont’s most distinctive wines. The newly established Consorzio is entrusted with the protection, promotion and enhancement of Nizza DOCG and, having achieved the representativeness requirements established by law, is now entitled to operate erga omnes, acting on behalf of the entire appellation.
Bava and Nizza DOCG: a family story
This milestone represents both an important achievement and a new beginning. We are proud to have contributed to the development of this project and to continue doing so actively, with Francesca Bava’s appointment to the new Board of Directors of the Consorzio.
This commitment confirms the deep bond between the Bava family and Nizza DOCG, a connection cultivated for over three decades. Francesca Bava recalls:
“For our family, this recognition represents the natural completion of a journey that began many years ago. My grandfather Piero purchased vineyards in Agliano already in the 1990s. In 1996, the first Bava Barbera harvest took place at the Pianoalto farmhouse. Piero Bava was there, together with his sons Roberto, Giulio and Paolo, when it all began.
From the very beginning, we believed in the extraordinary potential of Nizza DOCG and of Barbera grapes grown in this territory. This is why we joined the Associazione Produttori del Nizza and worked alongside many colleagues to build a strong and shared identity. I remember the presentation of Enogea’s Cru map, as well as countless editions of the official event, launched on 1 July, where our wine, Pianoalto Bava, has always been present.
The history of Nizza DOCG is first and foremost the story of people and wineries that have been able to work together, creating a cohesive community capable of enhancing a territory through wine. Today, the Consorzio represents a fundamental tool to continue adding value to a appellation that expresses the quality, history and future of Monferrato.”
The new board of Directors
The new Consorzio will be based in Nizza Monferrato and will be led by President Stefano Chiarlo, supported by Vice Presidents Gianni Bertolino and Daniele Chiappone.
The milestones of the appellation
Although the Nizza DOCG Consorzio has only recently been established, its roots date back to the early 2000s.
- 2000 – the Nizza subzone is recognised within Barbera d’Asti Superiore
- 2002 – the Nizza Producers’ Association is founded
- 2014 – the Nizza DOCG appellation is officially established, becoming an international benchmark for the most authentic expression of Barbera.
Nizza DOCG: the numbers behind the appellation
Today, the Consorzio brings together 97 producers operating across the 18 municipalities included in the appellation area.
In 2025, Nizza DOCG reached approximately one million bottles sold, with more than 180 labels and a total value of around €30 million. International markets account for 55% of production.
The future of Nizza DOCG
The creation of the Consorzio opens a new phase of growth for the appellation, with the aim of further strengthening its positioning on international markets and continuing to promote the unique connection between Nizza DOCG, the Monferrato territory and the producers who preserve its identity every day — starting, for the Bava family, with the vineyards of Pianoalto.
A glass of Nizza DOCG among the historic cellars of Cocconato
The best way to discover Nizza DOCG is to taste it directly at the winery. In Cocconato, a guided tour through the large oak vats and the historic cellar offers an opportunity to explore the production of our wines up close, before reaching the tasting room to enjoy Pianoalto, Bava’s Nizza DOCG, together with the other labels that express the identity of Langhe and Monferrato.
An experience to be savoured slowly, guided by the stories hidden behind every glass.