October in the Langhe Vineyards: The End of the Grape Harvest and the Piedmontese Dialect

After the harvest in the Langhe: discovering October amidst hilly landscapes, rural traditions, and warm hospitality.

When October casts its golden light over the hills of La Morra and through the vine rows of Agricola Marrone, the landscape changes rhythm and colors. The harvest of the great reds has come to an end, and the hustle of daily work gives way to a widespread sense of peace and calm. Slowly, we prepare for the arrival of winter.

This month as well, we have selected three terms from our Piedmontese dialect for you (brich, trifulau, and marenda): three words to discover the true essence of October in the Langhe.

The charm of the brich: autumn colors on the hills

In Piedmontese dialect, the word brich indicates a hilltop, a small rise, or a hill. In the Langhe area, it is often used to refer to hilltops suited for viticulture, characterized by steep slopes and panoramic views.

The brich are the hills of our vineyards, stretching from La Morra to our historic farmhouse in Madonna di Como. They are the heights we travel every day and that we recognize from afar when returning home. In October, the brich offer a unique spectacle: the vine rows lose the uniformity of summer green to dress in shades of yellow, red, and orange that make the landscape look like a natural painting. After weeks spent observing every single grape cluster up close, October is the month when we look up to admire the hill as a whole, taking in its continuous transformation.

Trifulau and tabuj: searching for treasure in the woods

At Agricola Marrone, October is also the month of truffles and the famous International Alba White Truffle Fair. During this period, a key figure of local folklore takes center stage: the trifulau, the Piedmontese truffle hunter. Together with his trusted dog (called tabuj in dialect), he explores woods, slopes, and uncultivated fields in search of one of the most precious treasures our incredible land has to offer.

And it is precisely here, in this daily search, that the poetry and true beauty of the “truffle hunt” lie: a deep connection between human and animal. The tabuj walks ahead with his nose always to the ground, while the trifulau follows patiently in the silence of the woods. It is a ritual made of waiting, light footsteps, and respect for nature.

The Piedmontese marenda: the pleasure of pausing together

After a day of work among the vineyards or a walk through the woods following the trifulau, the most anticipated moment of the day arrives: the marenda.

In the Piedmontese rural world, the marenda (snack) is not a simple sweet bite, but a savory, convivial meal of bread, salami, aged cheeses, and a fine glass of red wine—a simple pause that often lingers long into dinner time. In our winery, every marenda is a gathering moment and an opportunity to tell stories and share: we talk about the harvested grapes, the progress of the vintage, and the visitors we’ve welcomed.

We bring this same atmosphere of sharing and family warmth every day to the table at our restaurant: here, traditional autumn dishes and truffle-focused menus are paired with our estate-produced wines.

Autumn events: from the Truffle Fair to Christmas celebrations

During the weeks of the Truffle Fair, at Agricola Marrone we offer guided tastings and sensory experiences centered on the region’s great labels.

In addition, as the winter season approaches, our panoramic spaces and private kitchen get ready to host Christmas lunches, dinners, and corporate events, offering tailored moments dedicated to conviviality and the food and wine excellence of the Langhe.

Experience the magic of autumn in the Langhe at Agricola Marrone!

Autumn in the Langhe is a season to be experienced with all the senses. Whether you wish to discover the secrets of our barrel cellar or treat yourself to a flavorful break with a panoramic view over the brich of La Morra, the doors of our home are always open.

Choose your favorite tasting journey to discover firsthand how our wines come to life and walk among the golden vine rows, or come taste our new autumn menu, where genuine traditional flavors and seasonal excellence meet the great reds of the Langhe.

Book your experience or your table at the Restaurant: click here.