The old fishing port of Loano was once owned by the 'vescovi' of nearby Albenga for a century and a half from 1100.

Today, Albenga is best known as one of Italy's minor wine producing centers.

The coastal area is part of the Ponente and, athough most wine in Liguria is produced near La Spezia, this tract of the region has given us 'Pigato', 'Vermentino' and 'Oreasco' wines.

Unfortunately for the grapes of Albenga the local crop is not entitled to its own DOC label and is assumed into 'Riviera Ligure di Ponente DOC'.

Do look out for the sub-labels 'Albenganese', 'Albenga', 'Riviera dei Fiori' and 'Finalese' or 'Finale'.

Also of note is the 'Rossese di Albenga'. It is a lively wine with a strong taste and elegant perfume and can be drunk with any type of dish. Perfect.

www.comune.albenga.sv.it