The wine
“Valelapena” is a unique blend of Barbera, Nebbiolo, and Dolcetto, produced from grapes grown in the vineyard located inside the Alba prison. The vineyard covers just over one hectare and yields approximately 2,500 bottles each year.
Work in the vineyard
The grapes are tended and harvested by individuals currently deprived of their personal freedom, who are involved in a dedicated training program made possible through collaboration with the Fondazione Casa di Carità Arti e Mestieri Onlus.
The project also benefits from the support of students from Prof. Bruno Morcaldi of the I.I.S.S. Umberto I of Alba – Enology School, as well as agronomist Giovanni Bertello.
Vinification takes place directly in the cellars of the Enological Institute.
The history of the project
Launched in 2006, the project was funded by the Province of Cuneo and developed thanks to the collaboration between:
- Alba Prison “G. Montalto”
- Fondazione Casa di Carità Arti e Mestieri Onlus
- I.I.S.S. Umberto I – Enology School
- Local Operational Group (penitentiary administration, local authorities, social and health services, and volunteer organizations)
- Municipalities of Alba and Bra
- Syngenta agri-food group
During the event, students from the I.I.S.S. Umberto I will also be present at the stand, taking charge of serving the “Valelapena” wine and adding value in terms of hospitality, storytelling, and technical expertise.
