Francesco Agresti of Les Crêtes winery shared the unique challenges of crafting wine in Valle d’Aosta’s breathtaking yet extreme landscape. Here, the vineyards cling to steep, hillside slopes in Italy’s smallest and highest wine-producing region, nestled in the shadows of Europe’s tallest peaks—Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn. The valley’s dry climate and the impracticality of machinery on the rugged slopes make winemaking a labor-intensive yet rewarding endeavor.
Since being recognized as a DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) in 1986, the Valle d’Aosta has gained attention for its distinctive grape varieties, many of which are native to the region, including Petit Rouge, Fumin, Petite Arvine, and Torrette. Despite its size, Valle d’Aosta is a powerhouse of character and flavor, with winemaking as the second largest industry after the region’s famed Fontina cheese.
Les Crêtes: A Pioneer in Alpine Winemaking
Les Crêtes, one of Valle d’Aosta’s pioneering wineries, has significantly shaped the region’s wine culture. Founded in the 1980s by Constantino Charrère—a Mont Blanc ski instructor and the son of a local farmer—Les Crêtes has grown to become the region’s largest private winery, producing 170,000 bottles annually. The vineyards are recognizable by their iconic small houses perched atop each hill, a testament to the winery’s deep roots in the valley.
Pairing Les Crêtes Wines with Local Street Food
During my visit to Les Crêtes, I explored how their wines could pair beautifully with cibo di strada, or Italian street food. Francesco recommended the Fumin Valle d’Aosta D.O.P., a red wine with a rich structure that complements the region’s famed cold cuts. The Syrah Valle d’Aosta D.O.P. also shines alongside classic Aosta Valley cheeses like Fontina and Toma, creating a balanced and satisfying pairing.
For white wine lovers, the Fleur – Petite Arvine Valle d’Aosta D.O.P. offers a complexity ideal for pairing with antipasti. Meanwhile, the Chardonnay Valle d’Aosta D.O.P. and Pinot Grigio d’Aosta D.O.P.—both cultivated in the region’s mountainous vineyards—have distinctive flavors that elevate any dining experience.
Visit Les Crêtes Winery
Website: www.lescretes.it
Address: Soc. Agr. Di Charrère & C. S.S., Aymavilles (AO), Valle d’Aosta
On the picture: Elena Charrière (daughter of Constantino Charrère) and Francesco Agresti.
