Valle d'Aosta

Because this region is characterized by rocky soil and a difficult climate for grape-growing, vines are cultivated from Pont Saint-Martin to Mont Blanc only on lands that face the sun. Due to the fact that the valley in this region does not get much rain, vine disease is uncommon and grapes are rarely sprayed with chemicals. Though Valle d'Aosta only produces a small amount of the Italy's wine output, the region does contribute some of the most rare, high-quality Italian wines.

Wine Trail-From north to south

* Cave du Vin Blanc de Morgex et de La Salle (tel. 0165800331) is located in Morgex at the foot of Mont Blanc.
* Aymavilles has two wineries: Cave des Onze Communes (tel. 0165902912), which is the most important cooperative winery in the valley, offering wine sales, tastings and walks through the vineyards; and Azienda Les Cretes (tel. 0165902274), which has a cellar with a view of four castles and the vineyards.
* Aosta's main vineyard is the Institut Agricole Regional (tel. 0165553304). It is run by the monks of St. Bernard, and is known for its table wines. You can tour the cellar, the vineyards and the farm museum.
* Chambave's winery, La Crotta di Vegneron (at Piazza Roncas 2, tel. 016646670), produces Chambave wine as well as several other DOC wines.
* In Donnas, visit the Caves Cooperatives de Donnas at Via Roma 97 (tel. 0125807096) that offers tours of the cellars and wine tastings. Donnas is the only wine town in the region and is noted for its wine production.

Festivals and Culinary Events
. October: Donnas - Grape-Harvest Festival