The municipality of Castagnole Monferrato lies between the Asti and the Casale areas of Monferrato; from here begin the splendid hills that frame towns such as Moncalvo, Altavilla, Grana, up to Casale Monferrato. Castagnole is renowned for its Ruchè vineyards, a much-appreciated and well-known wine produced only in this area. The historic part of the village, developed around the remains of a 14th-century castle, is beautiful; in this central area stands the “ricetto”, which within the castle walls included the churches, military fortifications, the homes of notable families, and the tower. Here is the former Maria Elena nursery school, which hosts various initiatives linked to local wine production, such as Ruchè under the Stars, held on 10 August, the night of Saint Lawrence. As often happens in Monferrato, in the cellars of houses and farmhouses you can find the characteristic “Crutin”, tunnels dug into tuff where wine and food products were stored, a typical and famous feature of the area. Castagnole is also conveniently located both for reaching Asti and access to the motorway network, and for wonderful food-and-wine tours in Monferrato, enjoying the peace and the view amid the greenery of these beautiful hills.