Massimo Marengo works this small Castagnole cellar with his father Aldo, from planting the vines to handing you the bottles, and the Ruchè di Castagnole Monferrato is what's made their name — the sort locals call memorable and then go quiet, because the grape's rose-and-pepper perfume does the talking. There's a Barbera and a Grignolino too, both worth the detour, but the Ruché is why people become regulars here and stay regulars for years.
It's a genuinely small operation, so ring first (+39 0141 292521) rather than turning up cold. The welcome is warm and unfussy, the wines are grown and made by the two of them, and the prices reflect a family that would rather sell you good wine than dress up the visit. English gets by. Come for the Ruché; you'll likely leave planning the next trip up.