Arneis has been grown in Piedmont for centuries, particularly in the sandy hills of Roero, just north of the Barolo zone. The name Arneis is sometimes translated as “little rascal,” a reference to its reputation for being difficult to grow. Historically, it was often planted alongside Nebbiolo, where it may have served to attract birds away from the more valuable red grapes or to soften red wines when cofermented. By the mid twentieth century, Arneis had nearly disappeared, as growers favoured higher yielding and more commercially viable white grapes. Its revival began in the 1970s when a few producers recognised its potential and began replanting and bottling it as a varietal wine.

DNA profiling has confirmed Arneis as a distinct variety native to Piedmont, with no close relation to international white grapes. It has sometimes been confused with or mistaken for other local varieties such as Favorita or Malvasia Bianca, but genetic testing has clarified its identity. It is known almost exclusively as Arneis, though older synonyms such as Bianchetta or Nebbiolo Bianco occasionally appear in historical records. Today, Arneis is most closely associated with the Roero DOCG and Langhe DOC, and remains rare outside Italy, with small plantings in California and Australia.

Arneis is a low yielding and early to mid ripening grape that requires careful management in the vineyard. It is prone to disease and sensitive to poor weather during flowering and ripening. It thrives in the sandy, well drained soils of Roero and performs best on cooler sites that preserve acidity and freshness. Left unchecked, it can lose definition and develop flabby flavours. To achieve the best results, yields must be limited and harvest timing must be precise. While it does not demand high elevation, it does benefit from good diurnal temperature shifts to maintain balance.

Arneis is typically vinified in stainless steel to preserve its delicate aromas and clean fruit character. Some producers use lees stirring or partial malolactic fermentation to add roundness and texture. A small number of wines are fermented or aged in oak, though the grape’s subtle aromatics can be easily overwhelmed. Extended skin contact is uncommon but used occasionally in natural wine contexts to add grip and complexity. The best examples rely on precision and restraint to showcase freshness, floral nuance, and a soft, almond tinged finish. Arneis is not typically suited to long ageing, but top examples can develop over several years.

Arneis produces dry white wines that are medium bodied with moderate acidity and aromas of white peach, pear, apricot, chamomile, and almond. The palate is usually smooth and rounded, with a gently bitter note on the finish. Some wines show mineral or saline qualities, especially those grown on poorer soils. The style is typically unoaked, crisp, and lightly aromatic, making it an appealing choice for those seeking freshness without sharpness. While not overtly complex, well made Arneis can be quietly sophisticated and highly food friendly.

Arneis has made a notable comeback in Piedmont, thanks to growing demand for indigenous varieties and fresher white wines with regional character. Roero has become its heartland, and DOCG status has helped improve quality and visibility. Producers are exploring different terroirs and winemaking approaches to add nuance and identity. While it remains a small player compared to international whites, Arneis fits comfortably into the growing category of Mediterranean whites that balance ripeness with elegance. Export markets are beginning to show interest, especially in restaurants and wine bars focused on lesser known Italian grapes.

Bruno Giacosa helped revive Arneis and continues to produce a benchmark example that combines aromatic finesse with texture and precision. Vietti makes a clean and expressive version under the Roero Arneis DOCG that showcases orchard fruit and subtle spice. Malvirà and Matteo Correggia offer more mineral and structured interpretations, often from higher elevation or single vineyard sites. Deltetto crafts both still and sparkling Arneis with a focus on balance and freshness. These wines demonstrate the quiet appeal of Arneis and its growing role in the white wine landscape of Piedmont.