Of ancient origins, the name Castelnuovo Calcea derives from “Castrum Novum” (new encampment). It is believed that the first population were Liguri Statielli, the presence of whom is confirmed by some place names still in use today. Prior to the Roman conquest in the second century BC Gauls and Celts were probably present. Successively the land where Castelnuovo lies was subject to the domination of the Longobards and the Franks.

The hills of Castelnuovo Calcea are particularly suitable for viticulture and the production of wines of quality: Barbera, Grignolino, Cortese and Dolcetto. The Cantina Sociale “Barbera dei sei Castelli” (Barbera and its six castles) and the knowledgeable staff of the many wineries offer visitors a range of prestigious local wines. The industrial estate in Opessina is another source of employment.

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Angelo Brofferio (1802-1866), whose writings record life in Castelnuovo Calcea, where he was born, was a celebrated lawyer, journalist, politician and writer. As well as various tragedies and poems, he wrote “Storia del Piemonte” (History of Piedmont). He renewed the tradition of writing poems in the dialect of Piedmont, which was then continued by other poets with origins in and around Asti. In 1848 he was a member of the Parliament of Piedmont.