The Consorzio del Nizza DOCG: a new milestone for one of Barbera’s greatest expressions

The history of Nizza DOCG has entered a new chapter. On June 22, 2026, the Italian Ministry of Agriculture, Food Sovereignty and Forestry officially recognized the Consorzio del Nizza DOCG, giving the appellation its own official protection and promotion body. More than an administrative decision, this recognition confirms the maturity of an appellation that has become one of the leading expressions of Barbera over the past two decades.

The journey began in 2002 with the creation of the Associazione Produttori del Nizza, whose members sought to demonstrate that the hills around Nizza Monferrato deserved their own denomination. That ambition became reality in 2014 with the creation of Nizza DOCG.

The newly established Consortium will oversee the protection, promotion and development of the appellation while representing producers in Italy and abroad. Led by Stefano Chiarlo, with Vice Presidents Gianni Bertolino and Daniele Chiappone, the Consortium will continue promoting terroir, quality and international recognition. Located in the UNESCO-listed Monferrato hills, the appellation covers 18 municipalities and is produced exclusively from 100% Barbera. Strict production rules, careful vineyard selection and extended ageing requirements contribute to wines renowned for their depth and ageing potential.

Today the Consortium represents 97 wineries, more than 180 labels, nearly one million bottles sold in 2025, around €30 million in turnover and exports to more than 40 countries. Producers estimate future potential at 4 to 5 million bottles while maintaining the appellation’s high quality standards. The official creation of the Consorzio marks a decisive step in establishing Nizza DOCG among Italy’s benchmark Barbera appellations.