The Principiano estate is situated in Monforte d'Alba in Piemonte's Langhe Hills and was founded by Ferdinando's father, Americo, in the 1950's. Ferdinando took charge of the estate in 1993 and since 2004 has farmed biodynamically, using no chemicals in the vineyards or sulphur in the cellar. There are 10 hectares in all, producing 35,000 bottles annually. Yields are low and quality control ruthless. 'The resulting wine is fresh and juicy. Very approachable, but more importantly, makes for a superb food wine.