The sparkling wine appellation 'Alta Langa' is very recent, established only in 2002. It’s immediately south of the Langhe, where Barolo and Barbaresco are grown, but at higher elevation, hence 'Alta' (high). Germano’s vineyards Cigliè vineyards fall within the appellation and he makes an Alta Langa Spumante from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The most famous 'classic' (ie Champagne method, Champagne varieties) sparkling wines made in Italy are from Franciacorta, in Lombardy, but I prefer the best examples from the Alta Langa, and a bottle of this will show you why. The character of the terroir (high altitude and limestone rich soil) is clearly present, along with the flavors that come from the winemaking.