Vineyards Magazine

The Piedmont winery combines ethical sustainability with winemaking precision: cooler nighttime temperatures help preserve the rich aromatic profile of its native grape varieties while ensuring safer working conditions for vineyard crews

Montalbera, one of Piedmont’s leading wine estates with vineyards across Monferrato and the Langhe, has officially announced that its 2026 red wines night harvest will begin on 6 September.

What began in 2023 as an experimental response to climate change has now become a cornerstone of the winery’s production philosophy, bringing together the highest expression of its native grape varieties—first and foremost Ruchè di Castagnole Monferrato DOCG—with greater energy efficiency and a strong commitment to employee wellbeing. 

“Climate change is forcing us to rethink the rules of the game and adapt more quickly than ever before,” says Franco Morando, General Manager of Montalbera. “Every harvest reflects an entire year of dedication, yet it is during the night that its most precious moment unfolds. Harvesting in the cooler hours allows us to bring grapes to the winery with their aromas, freshness and identity fully preserved. It is a choice that combines experience, respect for nature and people, and an uncompromising pursuit of quality.”

The star of the evening will be Ruchè di Castagnole Monferrato DOCG Riserva Il Fondatore, the winery’s flagship wine and the ultimate expression of Montalbera’s heritage, vision and identity. The night will also mark the start of the harvest for Piemonte DOC Viognier. 

Harvesting after sunset is a deliberate decision aimed at preserving the integrity and elegance of every berry, safeguarding its organoleptic qualities and ensuring that the fruit reaches the winery in optimal condition for vinification. The harvest is carried out entirely by hand and supported by a meticulously planned logistics operation, including mobile lighting systems installed along the vineyard rows. This approach guarantees maximum safety and comfort for vineyard workers while complying with the latest agricultural labour regulations. 

From a winemaking perspective, night harvesting offers a significant advantage in preserving grape quality. Delivering fruit to the winery at naturally cool temperatures prevents unwanted spontaneous fermentation during transport while maintaining the structural integrity of the berries. The cool night air also protects the grapes’ delicate and complex aromatic profile, preserving the floral and spicy notes that have become hallmarks of Montalbera’s wines and contributed to their international acclaim. 

With this strategic decision for the 2026 vintage, the Morando family once again confirms Montalbera’s pioneering approach—successfully combining the scale and strength of a market leader with the meticulous attention to detail traditionally reserved for every single bunch of grapes.