The Queen of the Langhe…The PGI PIEDMONT HAZELNUT is a symbol of the
Alta Langa region and a product of absolute excellence; it is
considered the best hazelnut in the world thanks to its organoleptic
characteristics and its applications. EVERYTHING WE PRODUCE IS TOTALLY
ORGANIC AND GLUTEN-FREE.
Organic Products
Safeguarding the earth means having the courage to hand it down to future generations in the same or in better conditions than it is today. With this important concept in mind, our goal has always been to acquire organic certification for all of our products.
We have begun transitioning the Azienda Agricola Altalanga into one of the major organic productions of the zone, one of the few for IGP Piedmontese Hazelnuts in particular.
Values
At the Azienda Agricola Altalanga, we have a dream to create value in the things whose value had been lost. Over the years, we sifted through the territory of the Langhe in search of plots of land that, whether for historical or economical reasons, were left abandoned.
We claimed these lands in order to improve their soil structure and recreate their ideal compositions, ultimately returning the land to a new life that expresses the territory?s natural terrain. We do not simply return them to their ancient production of hazelnuts, truffles, and other products. We actively manage the land and its well-being because, one day, these places may be turned into centers for sustainable tourism, educational farms, workshops for children and schools, and work opportunities for young minds and able hands.
Why do we do this work? We do it because we believe that the Alta Langa is a unique and extraordinary territory that should be returned to life and enjoyed.
Innovation
Now that the Alta Langa is coming alive, we?ve brought all our passion to the front. What?s more, we?ve paired this project with another highly innovative initiative with two objectives.
On one part, we have begun the recovery of agricultural productivity by using: physico-chemical soil analysis, assistance from agronomists specialized in uncultivated land recovery, and crop rotation with legumes for the nitrogenization of the earth; and by valuing ancient, natural springs, cleaning up infested plants, and mycorrhization of truffle beds for reforestation and the cultivation of truffles.
The second objective is the use of technology in land protection by valuing all stages of the production cycle. For example, the material from agricultural refuse like hazelnut chips and shells are reused; or, we undergo architectural rescue and restoration of ancient farms so as to avoid further land use.
In the Cerrato production we strictly use the IGP certified Piedmont Hazelnuts, internationally recognized as the best hazelnut in the world, thanks to its intense aroma, unique taste and perfect preservation after roasting.
The name I.G.P. guarantees the quality and authenticity of the product to consumers.
Alta Langa a precious land
Perched in a small village overlooking the Uzzone Valley, Pasticceria Cerrato is located in the hills of the Alta Langa, a land par excellence of the IGP certified Piedmont Hazelnuts.
Also known as the ‘Langa della Nocciola’, the Alta Langa lies in that part of Piedmont on the border with Liguria, in the area of Cortemilia, where the Bormida flows, and the expanses of hazel groves give that poetic touch that makes the landscape unique.
The cultivation and production of hazelnuts have, over the decades, modelled the hilly environment, shaping it thanks to a long rural tradition, made of ancient knowledge related to the land.
Shape, sweetness and aroma, Unique
The first step is the selection of the best among the best Piedmont hazelnuts, unique for their characteristics and for the unique taste.
IGP certified Piedmont Hazelnut is particularly appreciated for the confectionery productions, ice creams and fine bakery, and it is perfect in combination with wine or aperitif tasting.
The transformation of the Hazelnut
In our laboratory we follow the processing of the hazelnut that is toasted according to our needs and the type of recipe.
Roasting is an important step that must take place in a homogeneous and non-aggressive way to enhance the fragrance of hazelnuts.
We work hazelnuts to get the pasta to use in our productions.
Products Include
Toasted Whole, Chopped or Ground
Chocolate Hazelnut SpreadHazelnut Paste
Hazelnut Paste with Honey
Chocolate Covered Hazelnuts
Caramelized Hazelnuts
Brut & Bon (traditional hazelnut cookies)
Hazelnut Cakes
Pure Hazelnut Oil