Arneis means "rascal" in Italian, and is so named for its ability to beguile the most patient winemakers. It is a white wine grape that originated (and is still primarily grown) in the Roero hills of Italy's southern Piedmont, just north of Alba. Once nearly extinct, Arneis has made a comeback in recent years. The wine received DOC status in 1989 and production has risen to 28,000 hl as consumers have come to appreciate its it's distinctive apricot and tangerine aromas.
It can produce very good wines with perfumy characteristics of apples, pears, and a hint of licorice. The wines, usually sold as Roero Arneis DOC, are in limited supply.