Sizzano: Wine, History and Hills

When looking for hotels in Sizzano, you can first consider whether wine, local history or outdoor excursions will shape your days. The town offers different ways to explore these interests: Sizzano DOC wine, archaeological remains and hills with scenic views. You can tailor your stay to focus more on tastings, history or the landscape, depending on your interests.

Wine: Composition and Taste

The regional product specification for Sizzano DOC calls for 50 to 70 percent Nebbiolo (Spanna) and 30 to 50 percent Vespolina and/or Uva rara (Bonarda novarese). In addition, up to ten percent of other non-aromatic red grape varieties may be permitted, provided they are approved for cultivation in Piedmont. Wine regulations can change; if you want to compare exact proportions, check the current product specification.

The percentage ranges are spans rather than a single fixed blend. The phrase “Vespolina and/or Uva rara” allows for either one variety or a combination of the two; it does not mean that they must be blended in equal proportions. The wine is ruby red with garnet reflections. Its aroma is vinous and distinctive, with delicate notes of violet; on the palate, it is dry, spicy and harmonious. Grape proportions describe the composition, while color, aroma and taste capture the sensory profile.

Wine Experiences

La Piemontina’s Casinò del Vino experience includes a guided winery tour with an introduction to every stage of production, followed by a blind tasting of four wines. La Piemontina also offers a vineyard picnic with views of the Monte Rosa massif. The two formats have different focuses: the tour is about production processes and tasting, while the picnic is about the vineyard and views of the Monte Rosa massif. Check whether these experiences are available before your trip.

Roman Traces and Inscription

An important Roman settlement was discovered on the northern edge of Sizzano. The archaeological heritage also includes an inscription known as the “Epigrafe di Augusto,” which dates to the 6th century. Be sure to distinguish the name from the date: the name alone should not be taken as the historical dating. A Roman settlement and a sixth-century inscription therefore represent different historical points of reference.

Hills and Routes

The hills around Sizzano offer views across the plain and the mountains. Like the entire Monteregio strip, the area has a distinctive microclimate influenced by Monte Rosa. The views describe what you can see from the hills, while the microclimate refers to the broader Monteregio strip.

The private chapel of San Giuseppe lies south of Sizzano along a hiking route; if you plan to visit, check in advance whether access is possible. The Madonnina della Pace lies along the hiking route near Sizzano. For cycling, the Risaie Ciclabili n. 7 route runs between Ghemme and Fara, passing through Sizzano. Hiking and cycling offer different points of interest: the chapels are along hiking trails, while the cycle route passes through Sizzano between two towns. Check the route details before setting out.

Discover more destinations: Pombia, Cureggio, Suno, Recetto, Casaleggio Novara, Orta San Giulio, Auzate, Marano Ticino

For the main travel overview: Novara.