Hazelnut growing is a centuries’ old tradition in Langa Astigiana and part of the Belbo valley. In recent years it has been gradually extending into the northern area of the province, taking over hundreds of hectares. It is a profitable cultivation, as well as being good for the local environment, as it is usually practised in areas where other cultivations prove difficult. The Piedmont hazelnut, which has benefited greatly in terms of profit and image from being granted IGP status in 1993 (protected geographic indication) boasts flavour and fragrance second to none. Expert pastry chefs and confectionery producers on a larger scale who want to make high quality chocolate, biscuits, cakes and icecream to satisfy the increasing demands of consumers, cannot do without this raw material with its inimitable flavour and aroma. And this is what enables Piedmont hazelnuts to withstand the competition from other parts of Italy, but above all from Turkey, the largest producer in the world, with nuts which are cheaper but also decidedly lower in quality. From the end of August there are traditional hazelnut fairs in Castagnole Lanze, Canelli, Castellero and Settime in the province of Asti to present the year’s harvest. And while hazelnuts are great for making wonderful sweets, they are absolutely indispensable for nougat. Various versions are made in almost all the pastry shops, from soft to chocolate covered, and always with great attention to the quality of the raw materials. The province of Asti boasts two nougat companies of national and international renown.