Lombardia Flashcards
1
Q
How big is Lombardia compared to the rest of Italy?
A
Lombardia is Italy’s fourth largest region.
It is Italy’s most populated region. It is both wealthy and industrialized.
2
Q
What are the tourist attractions in Lombardia?
A
Tourists flock to the beauty of Lakes Como and Garda in the summer and enjoy the ski slopes of the Alps each winter.
3
Q
What is the capital of Lombardia?
A
Milan; it is the second largest city in the country and is considered the center of industry, finance and fashion. This cosmopolitan metropolis possesses a dynamic wine market and consumes a considerable proportion of the fine wine produced in Lombardia and in Italy as a whole.
4
Q
Lombardia is home to which respected appellations?
A
-Valtellina
-Lugana
-Franciacorta (Italy’s best Metodo Classico/traditional method sparkling wine)
5
Q
How does Lombardia compare to other regions in respect to indigenous varieties?
A
Lombardia does not have an extensive array of indigenous varieties compared to other regions of the peninsula.
6
Q
How does Lombardia compare to other regions in respect to production volume?
A
Lombardia does not produce the high volume of wine made in neighboring Piemonte, Veneto and Emila-Romagna.
7
Q
How does Lombardia produce a substantial range of distinctive wines?
A
Lombardia has a considerable variety of climates and terrains.
8
Q
How far back has viticulture been traced in Lombardia and how?
A
Traces of viticulture dating back to the Bronze Age (3,000-1,200BC) have been found along the lakes of Lombardia.
9
Q
Grape culture in Lombardia has benefited under the tutelage of which historical peoples?
A
The Etruscans and Romans; vines became more extensively planted and wine quality improved.
The wines from Valtellina and Sirmirone have been appreciated since Roman times and were immortalized by the famous Latin poets, Virgil and Catullus.
10
Q
Where does Lombardia get its name from?
A
The name Lombardia is the legacy left behind by the German Lombards who occupied the region in the 6th century. They had restored order to the region after the fall of the Roman Empire resulted in barbarian invasions across the northern part of the peninsula (many vineyards were abandoned). After two centuries of occupation the Lombards relinquished control to Charlemagne.
11
Q
Who is responsible for resuscitating the vineyards during the Middle Ages?
A
The monastic orders.
But viticulture was given a further boost when several local noble families emphasized the importance of wine and vine.
12
Q
When were French grape varieties, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc, introduced?
A
It is believed that French varieties were introduced between the end of the 18th and the beginning of the 19th centuries with the arrival of Napoleon’s troops.
13
Q
Which vine ailments resulted in the decimation of the wine industry and the unfortunate loss of many indigenous varieties?
A
-Oidium (powdery mildew)
-Downy mildew
-Phylloxera
14
Q
Where is Lombardia located?
A
Lombardia lies in the central part of northern Italy. It is bordered by Switzerland to the north, Emila-Romagna to the south, and Piemonte to the west. Trentino-Alto Adige and Veneto from the eastern border.
15
Q
What are the four sectors that Lombardia can be divided into?
A
From north to south:
-The Alps: northernmost part of region; includes Valtellina
-The Prealps: a narrow band of hills and low-elevation mountains separating the Alps from the southcentral plain; it includes Franciacorta, the hills around Brescia and Bergamo and the hills around Lake Garda (Garda Lombardo)
-The Padana Plain (Pianura Padana): flat & fertile, it occupies the central and southern part & account for almost half the territory. The winegrowing area of Lower Lombardia is located in the eastern part of the Padana Plain.
-The Apennines Foothills: hilly area at the base of the Northern Apennines, fills the small southwestern corner of Lombardia between Piemonte and Emilia-Romagna. Includes winegrowing area of Oltrepo Pavese.
16
Q
Lombardia boasts a large number of rivers. What are they?
A
-Po
-Ticino (western border)
-Adda (central)
-Oglio (eastern-most)
Rivers commonly flow from the northern Alps to join the river Po.
17
Q
Where in Lombardia is the river Po located?
A
The Po is Italy’s longest river and forms most of the southern border between Lombardia and Emilia Romagna.
18
Q
Which sub-region is influenced by the river Adda?
A
The Adda influences Valtellina where it runs across the entire sub-region.
19
Q
Where is the river Ticino located?
A
The Ticino forms part of the border with Piemonte.
20
Q
Where is the river Oglio located?
A
The Oglio separates Franciacorta from the hills of Bergamo.
21
Q
Lombardia has the largest number of lakes in Italy. What are they?
A
(from west to east)
-Lake Maggiore
-Lake Como
-Lake Iseo
-Lake Garda (Italy’s largest)
22
Q
Where can Lombardia’s lakes be found?
A
Between the Alps and the Prealps in the northern portion of Lombardia.
23
Q
How does Lombardia’s lakes influence climate?
A
By moderating both diurnal and seasonal temperature swings. They impact all of the wine sub-regions, except the southernmost (Oltrepo Pavese and Lower Lombardia).
24
Q
Broadly speaking, what is the climate in Lombardia?
A
It is continental even though there is considerable climatic variation due to the presence of mountain ranges, hills, rivers, and lakes.
25
What are the three climatic zones of Lombardia?
1) The Alpine Zone (north):cold alpine climate at higher altitudes & a less-harsh alpine climate on the valley floors
2) The Lakes Zone (north-central): the lakes are large enough to not only moderate the local temperatures but also to provide an almost Mediterranean-like influence. The Prealps fall into this zone.
3) The Padana Plain (Pianura Padana) zone (south-central): Continental with severe winters and warm-to-hot summers; the area is humid and strongly affected by thick fogs in autumn and winter. This zone includes the hilly Apennine Foothills, which has a slightly cooler climate in summer due to higher altitude & the cool descending air from the Apennine range.
26
Where in Lombardia would you find the highest rainfall?
The Alps and the Prealps; both receive more than 55in/1,400mm each year.
Rainfall decreases moving south. The Pianura Padana receives only 20-30in/600-800mm per annum.
Most precipitation falls in the spring and autumn; winter is the driest season.
27
Describe the weather in Lombardia during the spring season.
Mild with abundant rainfall.
28
Describe the weather in Lombardia during the summer season.
Warm-to-hot; temperatures are moderated by altitude and by the presence of lakes.
29
Describe the weather in Lombardia during the autumn season.
Mild with abundant rainfall.
30
Describe the weather in Lombardia during the winter season.
Cold, particularly in the Alpine area and in the Pianura Padana; temperatures are more moderate near lakes.
31
The vineyard landscape of Lombardia is dominated by what type of grape varieties?
It is dominated by international varieties, particularly Franciacorta and Oltrepo Pavese.
Lombardia has a limited range of native varieties, having lost most to phylloxera.
32
What is the principal white varietal of the Lugana DOC?
Turbiana; also called Trebbiano di Lugana. The Lugana DOC is on the southern side of Lake Garda. It has been grown here since the 17th century.
33
What are the characteristics of Turbiana?
Turbiana is a high-quality grape and produces perfumed, rich, medium- to full-bodied wines with high acidity. Look for aromas of white flowers, citrus, apples and stone fruit.
It has an affinity for oak and long aging protential.
34
What grape variety was Turbiana previously believed to be genetically identical to?
Verdicchio/Trebbiano di Soave; more recent studies seem to suggest that the two are just very closely related. In fact, the two wines taste distinctly different. Some experts still consider Turbiana to be a biotype of Verdicchio.
35
What are some traditional white grape varieties grown in Lombardia other than Turbiana?
-Moscato Bianco
-Moscato Giallo
-Friulano
-Garganega
-Malvasia di Candia Aromatica
-Erbamat
36
What is the most widely planted grape variety (red or white) in Lombardia?
Croatina (red); considered a native variety of Lombardia. Its presence dates back to the Middle Ages. A particular favourite of Oltrepo Pavese, where it is confusingly called Bonarda.
37
What are the characteristics of Croatina?
Deep in colour, with fresh and juicy red fruit and spicy notes. They are fleshy and soft but with a tannic bite.
38
What style of wine is produced using Barbera?
Barbera is used to produce single-varietal wines, typically with a refreshing sour cherry character and savory notes.
It is also a very important component in red blends and is often blended with Croatina.
39
Nebbiolo is the dominant variety in which area of the Lombardia region?
Valtellina; in this area, Nebbiolo goes by the name of Chiavennasca.
Valtellina is the only major winegrowing region outside of Piemonte where the Nebbiolo grape thrives and where a considerable quantity of wines are produced from this variety.
40
What is the Groppello variety?
The name "Groppello" actually refers to a group of varieties that share similar characteristics.
Groppello Gentile is the leader of the grouping, both in terms of acreage and quality. It is widely planted in the Lake Garda area and is often used to produce rosato due to its large berries.
41
What style of wine does Groppello produce?
Wines that display bright, floral notes, fresh red fruit (cherry, strawberry) and spice.
42
Where in Lombardia is Uva Rara grown?
Most plantings are in Oltrepo Pavese, where it is blended, in small proportion, with Croatina and Barbera to add aromas of red fruit and spice.
Uva Rara translates to "rare grape."
43
Ughetta (Vespolina) has plantings in Lombardia but is native to which region?
Ughetta is native to Piemonte, where it is know as Vespolina (its official name).
In Lombardia, it is grown in Oltrepo Pavese where it is used as a blending partner for Croatina and Barbera. It contributes tannin, aroma and spice.
44
Where in Lombardia is Lambrusco planted?
The Lambrusco family is grown only in the southeastern corner of Lombardia (Lower Lombardia), where it is used to produce the Lambrusco Montovano DOC. Different varieties of the Lambrusco family can be used, but the local native Lambrusco Viadanese is the most commonly planted.
45
Name the native/traditional red varieties found in Lombardia.
-Croatina
-Barbera
-Nebbiolo
-Groppello
-Uva Rara
-Ughetta (Vespolina)
-Lambrusco
-Moscato di Scanzo
-Marzemino
-Sangiovese
-Incrocio Terzi
-Schiava
-Brugnola
-Rossola
-Pignola
46
Name the international white varietals found in Lombardia.
Widely grown:
-Chardonnay
-Riesing Italico (Welschriesling)
-Pinot Grigio
Small quantities:
-Pinot Bianco (Franciacorta)
-Riesling (Oltrepo Pavese)
47
How widely planted is Chardonnay in Lombardia?
Chardonnay represents the third-most widely planted variety and represents more than 10% of Lombardia's total vineyard plantings. Most are found in Franciacorta for the production of sparkling wines, but it is also used as a component in several DOCs for their biancos.
48
Name the international red varietals found in Lombardia.
-Pinot Nero
-Merlot*
-Cabernet Sauvignon*
-Cabernet Franc*
*grown to produce blends in a few DOCs, particularly in the provinces of Bergamo and Brescia.
49
How widely planted is Pinot Nero in Lombardia?
Pinot Nero is the second-most widely planted variety in Lombardia after Croatina and represents 13% of Lombardia's total vineyard plantings.
Most are found in Oltrepo Pavese where it is used to produce traditional method sparkling wines as well as dry, still Pinot Nero.
50
Rank the most widely planted grape varieties in Lombardia.
1) Croatina (16%)
2) Pinot Nero (13%)
3) Chardonnay (12%)
4) Barbera (11%)
5) Riesling Italico (6%)
6) Pinot Grigio (4%)
7) Merlot (4%)
8) Nebbiolo (4%)
9) Turbiana (3%)
Others (27%)
51
How much area in Lombardia is under vine?
More than 50,000ac/20,000ha.
52
How many sub-regions/districts are there in Lombardia?
Six; each with their own climate and topographical features that define the styles of the wine produced. Each sub-region focuses on different grape varieties.
53
List the six sub-regions/districts in Lombardia?
-Valtellina
-Franciacorta and Brescia Hills
-Bergamo Hills
-Oltrepo Pavese
-Garda Lombardo
-Lower Lombardia
54
How many DOCs and DOCGs are there in Lombardia?
21 DOCs
5 DOCGs
55
Where in Lombardia is Valtellina located?
Valtellina is Lombardia's most northerly winegrowing area. The vineyards lie along a very narrow strip of land on the northern bank of the Adda River in the foothills of the Alps. The valley stretches 27mi/45km from east to west.
56
What geographical features contribute to Valtellina's climate?
The vineyards are surrounded to the north, south and east by mountain ranges. To the west, the Adda River flows into Lake Como, which, in turn, provides warm air that travels back up the valley to remain trapped by the mountain ranges.
The vineyards also have a perfect south-facing aspect which is critical for achieving ripeness in the late-maturing Nebbiolo - the primary grape of the area.
57
Due to the limited space available to grow vines, how have vineyards historically been planted in Valtellina?
Vineyards have historically been divided into a multitude of small parcels that are planted on small terraces sustained by dry-stone retaining walls.
These vineyards lie up to 2,300-2,600ft/700-800m in altitude.
58
How has viticulture in Valtellina earned the epithet "heroic"?
Tending and harvesting the vines is extremely labor-intensive. Some of the slopes in Valtellina are so steep that grapes must be picked and placed into baskets that are worn as backpacks, while other vineyards have been equipped with monorails to facilitate the transport of grapes down to the bottom of the valley.
59
Describe the soils in Valtellina.
Soils are a consequence of mountain erosion and deposits left by ancient glaciers. They are also the result of the tireless work of growers, who for centuries had to periodically restore the soils worn-out by erosion by carrying ground from the valley up to the terraces.
The soils are largely composed of granitic sands, broken schist and alluvial material. They are shallow and poor. However, summer rainstorms help mitigate stress for the vines.
60
How does the rocky landscape and the stones that form the retaining walls of the terraces have a critical advantage?
They warm in the sunlight and reflect that heat back to the vines. This added warmth promotes ripening by raising the temperature in an otherwise cool climate.
61
How many DOCs & DOCGs does Valtellina have?
Two DOCGs
-Sforzato (Sfursat) di Valtellina DOCG
-Valtellina Superiore DOCG
One DOC
-Rossi di Valtellina (Valtellina Rosso) DOC
(3 appellations)
62
All appellations in Valtellina require how much of which varietal in their wines?
Minimum 90% Chiavennasca (Nebbiolo).
63
Which appellation represents the pinnacle of the wines of Valtellina?
Sforzato (Sfursat) di Valtellina DOCG
64
How are wines from Sforzato (Sfursat) di Valtellina DOCG made?
Healthy, fully ripe clusters of Nebbiolo are picked and air-dried via the appassimento process. Producers are required to desiccate the grapes until at least the 10th of December after harvest, however it is common practice to prolong the drying process for three to four months before starting vinification.
The finished wine is dry and must have a minimum abv of 14%. It undergoes a minimum of 20 months of aging with at least 12 months of that time in oak.
65
What are the characteristics of wines from Sforzato (Sfursat) di Valtellina DOCG?
The wines are intense and complex, with layers of dried fruit, spices and tobacco. The palate is velvety smooth. Compared to the wines of the similarly vinified Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG, Sfursat versions tend to be less powerful but more elegant.
66
What are the aging requirements for wines from Valtellina Superiore DOCG?
The minimum aging is a total of two years with at least one year in oak.
Riserva requires a minimum of three years of aging.
Note: although DOCG requirements is 90% Nebbiolo, most wines are made from 100% Nebbiolo.
67
What are the characteristics of wines from Valtellina Superiore DOCG?
The wines are pale in colour with delicate aromas of dried rose, red fruit, leather and spice.
With bottle age, the wine acquires a complex bouquet of alpine flowers and dried herbs.
68
How does Valtellina Superiore DOCG compare to Barolo or Barbaresco?
Valtellina Superiore tends to be more approachable and perfumed with a leaner overall structure. The wines are characterized by finesse and elegance rather than power and depth.
69
What are the five official sub-zones of Valtellina Superiore DOCG?
From east to west:
1) Valgella: The largest and most easterly sub-zone delivering soft, floral and forward wines.
2) Inferno: Meaning "hell" due to the steep, rocky vineyards and the hotter conditions found in this sub-zone. The wines are the most structured, tannic and austere and possess the greatest aging potential.
3) Grumello: Delivers fragrant wines with soft tannins and similar aging potential to Inferno.
4) Sassella: Well-known and of long-standing renown; produces elegant Nebbiolos.
5) Maroggia: the most recent (2002) and smallest sub-zone. The wines are velvety with firm tannins.
70
How does Rossi di Valtellina (Valtellina Rosso) DOC compare to the DOCGs in Valtellina?
Rossi di Valtellina is the 'entry level' wine of Valtellina. In terms of quality and complexity, it is the simplest wine produced in the region.
The wines mature earlier than Valtellina Superiore DOCG and represent a more approachable and straightforward version of Nebbiolo.
71
What varietals are used in wines from Rossi di Valtellina (Valtellina Rosso) DOC?
The wines are traditionally made from 90% Nebbiolo with the balance composed of local varieties such as:
-Brugnola
-Rossola
-Pignola
72
What is the aging requirement for wines from Rossi di Valtellina (Valtellina Rosso) DOC?
The minimum aging requirement is six months.
73
The Franciacorta and Brescia Hills sub-region lies near which city?
The city of Brescia.
74
How far back can the name Franciacorta be traced back?
The first appearance of the name Franciacorta can be traced back to 1277 when "Franzacurta" was used as a reference to define the area just to the south of Lake Iseo.
75
What does Franzacurta mean?
It is believed to be derived from the Latin curtes francae, referencing monastic lands and properties that were exempt from taxes during the Middle Ages. Francae, in Latin, means free.
76
What is the Libellus de Vino Mordaci?
The Libellus de Vino Mordaci (Book of Fizzy Wine) was a book published in 1570 by a local doctor named Gerolamo Conforti. In it, he noted that the area of Franciacorta was somehow producing wines with sparkle and that the locals had harnessed the means to maintain the sparkle.
77
Who is Franco Ziliani and what is his historical significance?
In the 1950s, he was a young and dynamic winemaker at the Berlucchi winery, where he experimented with the production of bottle-fermented sparkling wine. The first official release of his traditional method sparkling wine, bottled as Pinot di Franciacorta, was in 1961. It was primarily made from Pinot Bianco.
78
When did Franciacorta achieve DOC and DOCG status?
-DOC in 1967 (this included red/white still wines).
-DOCG in 1995 (the first DOCG in Italy exclusively for traditional method sparkling wine/metodo classico).
*in 1995, the Terre di Franciacorta DOC was created for red/white still wine.
*in 2008,Terre di Franciacorta DOC was changed to Curtefranca.
79
Where is Franciacorta located?
The appellation of Franciacorta covers the territory to the south of Lake Iseo between the Oglio and Mella rivers.
80
How many villages are entitled to produce Franciacorta?
A total of 19 villages can produce Franciacorta.
Two of the most well-known are:
-Erbusco
-Adro.
81
What features in Franciacorta contribute to the local climate?
The area follows the contours of a glacial moraine; it is an amphitheater with gentle slopes.
The continental climate is moderated by the influence of Lake Iseo.
The mountain ranges to the north protect the area by blocking most of the cold air descending from the Alps.
Vineyards are planted at elevations of 300-1,600ft/100-500m.
82
What type of soils will you find in Franciacorta?
Soils are mineral-rich and composed of sand, silt, gravel and limestone. They are very well-drained.
83
What is the climate in Franciacorta?
Continental
84
What varietals are used to produce Franciacorta?
-Chardonnay (tend to dominate in blend)
-Pinot Nero
-Pinot Bianco (cannot exceet 50% in blend by law; usually used in small proportions)
-Erbamat (up to 10%)
85
What is Erbamat and when was it introduced?
Erbamat is a local, late-ripening and high acid white grape varietal that was introduced in 2017. It can now constitute up to 10% of the Franciacorta blend.
86
Which grape varietal represents the majority of plantings in Franciacorta?
Chardonnay; with 80% of the total plantings.
87
What are the aging requirements of a non-vintage (NV) Franciacorta?
Minimum 18 months on the lees.
This period is the longest minimum lees aging requirement in the world for non-vintage, traditional method sparkling wine (Champagne requires only 12 months on the lees.)
88
What are the aging requirements of a Vintage Franciacorta?
Vintage bottlings (millesimato) require a minimum of 30 months on their lees.
89
What are Franciacorta riserva wines?
Riserva wines are vintage bottlings made in exceptional years.
90
What are the aging requirements of a riserva Franciacorta?
Minimum 60 months of lees aging.
91
How are the lees removed from Franciacorta bottles?
Manual or mechanical riddling.
92
What is Saten?
A unique style of Franciacorta. It is a Chardonnay-based Blanc de Blancs produced with maximum 5 atm of pressure and finished as Brut. The reduced pressure gives the wine a softer, creamier and silkier mousse.
(Saten=silk)
93
What are the aging requirements of a Saten?
Minimum 24 months on the lees for non-vintage.
It can also be produced as:
-millesimato (min 30 months)
-riserva.(min 60 months)
94
What are the varietal requirements of Franciacorta Rose?
Minimum 35% Pinot Nero.
95
What are the aging requirements of Franciacorta Rose?
Minimum 24 months on their lees.
Can also be produced as:
-millesimato (min 30 months)
-riserva (min 60 months)
96
What harvesting method is used in Franciacorta?
Harvest is carried out by hand. (Whole bunches)
97
What level of dosage is used in Franciacorta wines?
The warm growing conditions allow producers to pick grapes with a ripeness level that makes high levels of dosage unnecessary. So, low dosage styles like Extra Brut and Brut Nature (usually labled Non Dosato or Dosaggio Zero) are particularly common and successful.
98
What is required on the label of a Franciacorta bottle of wine?
The name Franciacorta alone is enough to identify the wine's place of origin.
Franciacorta, together with Asti, Marsala, Champagne, Sherry/Jerez and a few other appellations, represent a select few wine regions in Europe that are not required to state the PDO level (in this case DOCG) on the label.
99
What are the sweetness levels of a Franciacorta non-vintage wine?
-Demi-Sec
-Sec
-Extra Dry
-Brut
-Extra Brut
-Brut Nature
Note: The sugar content of each category follows EU regulations.
100
What are the sweetness levels of a Franciacorta Vintage wine?
-Extra Dry
-Brut
-Extra Brut
-Brut Nature
Note: The sugar content of each category follows EU regulations.
101
What are the sweetness levels of a Franciacorta Riserva wine?
-Brut
-Extra Brut
-Brut Nature
Note: The sugar content of each category follows EU regulations.
102
Where is the Curtefranca DOC located?
Curtefranca covers exactly the same area as Franciacorta.
103
What styles of wine are produced in Curtefranca?
Curtefranca is dedicated to two styles of still wine:
-dry red (rosso) made from a blend of Cabernet Franc/Sauvignon, Merlot, Carmenere.
-white (bianco) made from a min 50% Chardonnay, and max 50% Pinot Bianco.
Note: some premium wines made from 100% Chardonnay are also produced.
104
Name the three small DOCs located on the hills surrounding the city of Brescia.
-Botticino DOC
-Cellatica DOC
-Capriano del Colle DOC
105
What style of wine is produced in the Brescia Hills DOCs?
Production is mostly red.
Wines are crafted from:
-Marzemino
-Barbera
-Schiava
-Sangiovese
Note: These wines were of significant renown in the 16th century, but today are mostly consumed locally.
106
Where is the sub-region Bergamo Hills located?
Bergamo Hills covers a strip of hilly land that surrounds the city of Bergamo and runs from the Adda River to Lake Iseo.
107
What is the climate in Bergamo Hills?
Continental and mild.
108
What features influence the climate in Bergamo Hills?
The mild climate is moderated by the lake.
The Prealps block the cold northerly winds.
Vineyards lie on the gentle-to-moderate slopes of the Prealps.
109
What are the soil types in Bergamo Hills?
Largely composed of limestone with varying amounts of clay.
110
Name the DOCG and DOCs in Bergamo Hills.
-Moscato di Scanzo (or Scanzo) DOCG
-Valcalepio DOC
-Terre del Coleoni DOC
111
Which of Bergamo Hills appellations is the smallest DOCG in Italy?
Moscato di Scanzo DOCG
112
What style of wine is produced in Moscato di Scanzo DOCG?
Sweet, red passito wine.
It is made in very tiny quantities from the local Moscato di Scanzo, a rare grape belonging to the muscat family. It is grown exclusively around Bergamo, particularly in the small hilly area surrounding the town of Scanzorosicate (northeast of Bergamo), where it has historically enjoyed a great reputation.
It is one of the very few sweet, red passito wines produced on the peninsula.
113
How is Moscato di Scanzo DOCG made?
Fully ripe, or slightly over-ripe, non-botrytized grapes, are picked in October by hand - cluster by cluster. They are then air-dried for a minimum of three weeks by law. In practice, most producers dry the grapes until December.
After vinification, the wine must be aged for a minimum of two years before release.
114
What are the characteristics of a wine from Moscato di Scanzo DOCG?
These intense and complex wines have floral, berry and spice notes with high alcohol. The wine combines restrained sweetness, refreshing acidity and velvety smooth tannins.
115
Which DOC in Bergamo Hills is the principal appellation?
Valcalepio DOC is the principal appellation of Bergamo in terms of area under vine and production volume.
116
What style of wine is produced in Valcalepio DOC?
Medium-bodied red wines from a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. These grape varieties have been growing in this area since the 19th century.
White wines are made from Chardonnay and Pinot Bianco.
Passito wines from Moscato di Scanzo are also produced.
117
What area of land does Terre del Colleoni DOC cover?
Terre del Colleoni covers all the vineyards within the province of Bergamo.
118
What styles of wine are produced in Terre del Colleoni DOC?
-Traditional method sparkling wines
-Dry varietal wines
-Passito wines
Several Italian and international grapes are allowed.
Production is small.
119
Which is the largest and most productive sub-region of Lombardia?
Oltrepo Pavese
It boasts a wide range of grape varieties, styles and DOCs, including a specific DOCG for traditional method sparkling wines based on Pinot Nero.
120
Oltrepo Pavese has made a name for itself as what?
-As the stronghold of Italian Pinot Nero.
121
What is the most widely planted varietal in Oltrepo Pavese?
Croatina
Followed by:
-Barbera
-Pinot Nero
-Moscato Bianco
Other widely planted grapes include:
-Riesling Italico (Welschriesling)
-Pinot Grigio
-Chardonnay
-Malvasia di Candia Aromatica
-Riesling
-Uva Rara
-Vespolina
122
What quality of wine is produced in Oltrepo Pavese?
There is a considerable variation in quality. The wines range from simple, mass-produced wines to high-quality, characterful wines with a strong connection to the local traditions and to the terroir of Oltrepo Pavese.
123
Which sub-region has been the main producer of bulk wine in Lombardia for decades?
Oltrepo Pavese
In the past, production was entirely forced on everyday wine for Milan and on base-wines for sparkling wine.
124
Which wine from Oltrepo Pavese has established renown?
Lino Maga's iconic Barbacarlo.
125
Where is the sub-region Oltrepo Pavese located?
It is located in the southwestern corner of Lombardia, south of the Po (Oltre-Po means beyond the river Po) and at the foothills of the Northern Apennines. It borders Piemonte on the west and Emilia-Romagna on the east.
The vineyards lie on hillsides at 300-1,600ft/100-500m in altitude.
126
What is the climate in Oltrepo Pavese?
Moderate but continental with warm dry summers and cold winters. Summer days have wide diurnal temperature swings that help to retain acidity and develop aromatic complexity in the grapes. Rainfall is spring- and autumn-dominant.
127
What type of soils are found in Oltrepo Pavese?
There are a variety of soils, including:
-limestone
-marl
-clay
-chalk
128
Which metodo classico (traditional method) sparkling wine was the second to obtain DOCG status?
Oltrepo Pavese Metodo Classico DOCG (2007)
Note: Franciacorta was the first.
129
Where in Oltrepo Pavese is Pinot Nero planted?
Pinot Nero is planted throughout the entire Oltrepo Pavese sub-region. This region focuses primarily on Pinot Nero, a variety that has made itself a home in these cool limestone-based hills.
130
What varietals are found in Oltrepo Pavese Metodo Classico DOCG wines?
-minimum 70% Pinot Nero
-maximum of 30% Chardonnay and/or Pinot Bianco and/or Pinot Grigio
Wines with a minimum 85% Pinot Nero can state the words "Pinot Nero" on the label (e.g. Oltrepo Pavese Metodo Classico Pinot Nero DOCG).
131
What are the aging requirements of non-vintage Oltrepo Pavese Metodo Classico DOCG wines?
Minimum 15 months on the lees.
132
What are the aging requirements of Vintage (millesimato) Oltrepo Pavese Metodo Classico DOCG wines?
Minimum 24 months on lees.
133
How are the lees collected from bottles of Oltrepo Pavese Metodo Classico.?
Manual or Mechanical riddling.
134
What is Cruase?
A collective brand name for Oltrepo Pavese Metodo Classico Rose wines created by the consortium to improve and promote the quality of this style. It was given specific rules in terms of production, quality and packaging. Cruase represents the best of Oltrepo Pavese's roses.
135
Name the only DOCG in Oltrepo Pavese.
Oltrepo Pavese Metodo Classico DOCG
136
Name the DOCs in Oltrepo Pavese.
Major DOCs:
-Oltrepo Pavese DOC
-Bonarda dell'Oltrepo Pavese DOC
-Pinot Nero dell'Oltrepo Pavese DOC
-Buttafuoco (or Buttafuocol dell'Oltrepo Pavese) DOC
Minor DOCs:
-Sangue di Giuda (or Sangue di Giuda dell'Oltrepo Pavese) DOC
-Oltrepo Pavese Pinot Grigio DOC
-Casteggio DOC
-San Colombano Al Lambro (or San Colombano) DOC
137
What area does the Oltrepo Pavese DOC cover?
Geographically, the DOC covers the entire sub-region.
The sub-region was given DOC status in 1970.
138
What style of wines are produced under Oltrepo Pavese DOC?
A wide possible range of styles and grape varieties. Among the most distinctive wines are:
-Barberas
-Malvasias
-Moscatos
139
What area does Bonarda dell'Oltrepo Pavese DOC cover?
Geographically, this DOC covers the entire Oltrepo Pavese sub-region.
140
What varietals are used in wines from Bonarda dell'Oltrepo Pavese DOC?
-minimum 85% Croatina (Bonarda)
-maximum 15% Barbera, Uva Rara, and Ughetta as blending partners.
141
What are the characteristics of wines from Bonarda dell'Oltrepo Pavese DOC?
These wines can be quite tannic (due to the high proportion of Croatina) and were traditionally finished with a little residual sugar to offset the tannins and the bitter finish.
Today, a dry style is also common.
They can be produced:
-still
-vivace (lively)
-frizzante (semi-sparkling); most common style
142
Which Pinot Nero clones are used to produce quality red wines in Pinot Nero dell'Oltrepo Pavese DOC?
Pinot Nero was initially planted to produce base wines for sparkling wine. Some producers noticed that the combination of moderate climate, limestone soils and southern exposure was ideal to produce Pinot Nero as a still wine. The sparkling wine clones did not achieve the expected quality, so Burgundian clones were cultivated and now the red wine is gaining in reputation.
143
What are the characteristics of wines from Pinot Nero dell'Oltrepo Pavese DOC?
The wines are complex hinting of red fruit, forest floor, licorice and spices. The have good aging potential.
144
Where is Buttafuoco DOC located?
Buttafuoco (or Buttafuoco dell'Oltrepo Pavese) DOC is located in the northeastern part of the sub-region in what it has historically been considered the classic Oltrepo Pavese area for quality wines.
The vineyards face south on steep slopes of calcareous-clay. These slopes cluster around the towns of Stradella, Broni, and Canneto Pavese.
Buttafuoco was previously a sub-zone of Oltrepo Pavese.
145
When did Buttafuoco gain DOC status?
Buttafuoco gained DOC status in 2010 by virtue of its high reputation.
146
What soil is found in the sub-zone Buttafuoco?
Calcareous-clay
147
What style of wine is produced by Buttafuoco DOC?
Classic dry, still reds that undergo oak maturation.
The wines are based on Croatina and Barbera (25-65%) with a maximum addition of 45% Uva Rara and Ughetta.
A frizzante version is also produced.
148
What are the characteristics of wine from Buttafuoco DOC?
Full-bodied wines that are complex, structured and tannic, and benefit from bottle aging.
149
What style of wines are produced in Sangue di Giuda?
Sweet red wine that is produced in a variety of versions:
-vivace
-frizzante
-spumante
The blending formula used is identical to Buttafuoco; Croatina and Barbera (25-65%) with a maximum of 45% Uva Rara and Ughetta.
150
What style of wine does Oltrepo Pavese Pinot Grigio DOC produce?
This DOC was specifically created for Pinot Grigio.
151
What style of wine is Casteggio DOC?
A structured red wine made from:
-Barbera
-Croatina
-Uva Rara
-Ughetta
-Pinot Nero
152
Which DOC is the only one that lies partly within the administrative province of Milan.
San Colombano Al Lambro (or San Colombano) DOC
153
Where is the Garda Lombardo sub-region located?
It lies on the western side of Lake Garda in the province of Brescia. It encompasses the hills overlooking the lake.
154
What feature does the local climate of Garda Lombardo benefit from?
The moderating influence of Lake Garda.
155
Name the DOCs of Garda Lombardo.
-Lugana DOC
-Riviera del Garda Classico DOC
Minor DOCs:
-Garda DOC
-San Martino della Battaglia DOC
-Garda Colli Mantovani DOC
156
Where is the Lugana DOC located?
In Garda Lombardo, Lugana is located on the southern side of Lake Garda. It stretches from the flat plain of the lakeshore to a string of inland low hills.
The DOC is inter-regional - shared between Lombardia and Veneto - although the majority of the appellation is contained within Lombardia and lies around the towns of Sirmione, Desenzano del Garda, Pozzolengo and Lonato.
The area between the hamlets of Lugana and Rovizza is considered the historic home of Lugana DOC.
157
What types of soils are found in Lugana?
Soils are typically calcareous clays over a sub-soil of glacial moraine. In the southern part of the appellation, soils have a higher sand and gravel content.
158
When did Lugana gain recognition?
Lugana gained recognition in the 1990s as a result of the quality and character of its wines. Today, Lugana is considered the most distinctive white wine appellation in Lombardia.
159
What style of wine is produced by Lugana DOC?
White wine made from a minimum 90% Turbiana (Trebbiano di Lugana). In practice, the wines tend to be 100% Turbiana.
160
What are the characteristics of Lugana DOC wines?
The wines are marked by high acidity, medium to full body, minerality and a complexity that increases with bottle age. Lugana shows aromas of white flowers, yellow apples, stone fruit, flint, nuts and sweet spices.
161
What wine-making techniques are used for Lugana DOC wines?
The structure and high extract allows producers to used techniques such as:
-lees stirring
-barrel-fermentation
-barrel-aging
When oak is used, the wine tends to benefit from a few years of bottle age to better integrate the oak into the wine. Today, more producers make use of larger and more neutral barrels.
162
What 3 types of still wine are produced by Lugana DOC?
-Lugana: the youngest and most forward version, it is released a few months after harvest.
-Lugana Superiore: a more structured and complex wine that must be aged a minimum of 12 months before release.
-Lugana Riserva: must be aged for at least 24 months with a minimum of 6 months in bottle. It is the most age-worthy version and has fuller body and higher alcohol. It is characterized by more evolved nuances with flinty, toasty and balsamic notes.
163
What styles of wine are produced by Lugana DOC, other than still wine?
-Vendemmia Tardiva (late harvest)
-Spumante
Albeit in small quantities.
164
Where is Riviera del Garda Classico DOC located?
It occupies the western and southern sides of Lake Garda.
165
What styles of wine are produced by Riviera del Garda Classico DOC?
The appellation focuses primarily on Groppello. This red grape can be produced in 3 styles:
1) Varietal Groppello
2) Rosso
3) Chiaretto (rose)
Note: Rosso & chiaretto may include the optional addition:
-Marzemino
-Sangiovese
-Barbera
The DOC also allows for the production of a bianco blend based on Riesling and/or Riesling Italico.
166
Which wine style is of considerable renown from Riviera del Garda Classico DOC?
Chiaretto, the local rosato, is considered the flagship of the appellation. It is vinified via a very short maceration.
167
What are the characteristics of the chiaretto from Riviera del Garda Classico DOC?
The wine is pale pink and refreshing with aromas of strawberry and flowers.
168
What is chiaretto?
Chiaretto is the traditional name of rosato wines made in the area surrounding Lake Garda in both Lombardia and Veneto. The term is found most often on the rose wine labels from Lake Garda apellations such as Riviera del Garda Bresciano DOC and Bardolino DOC.
169
What is the one official sub-zone of Riviera del Garda Classico DOC?
Valtenesi; it covers the southwestern side of Lake Garda. It was incorporated into Riviera del Garda Classico DOC as a sub-zone in 2017. Prior to this it was a separate DOC.
170
What styles of wine are produced by Valtenesi?
The sub-zone Valtenesi is reserved only for:
-chiaretto
-rosso
Note: the rosso may aslo be produced as riserva)
171
What area does the Garda DOC cover?
Garda is a large inter-regional DOC shared between Lombardia and Veneto. In Lombardia, it covers the entire sub-region of Garda Lombardo.
172
Which varietals are allowed in Garda DOC wines?
Many Italian and international grapes are allowed, including:
-Garganega
-Pinot Grigio
-Sauvignon Blanc
-Riesling
-Merlot
-Marzemino
173
What styles of wine are produced in Garda DOC?
-bianco
-rosso
-rosato
-spumante
-passito
-varietal
174
Where is San Martino della Battaglia DOC located?
This inter-regional DOC is shared between Lombardia and Veneto and covers approximately the same geographical area as the Lugana DOC.
175
What style of wine is produced by San Martino della Battaglia DOC?
White wines from Friulano.
176
Where is the Garda Colli Mantovani DOC located?
This DOC lies in the hills to the south of Lake Garda in the province of Mantova.
177
What styles of wine are produced in Garda Colli Mantovani DOC?
White wines based on:
-Garganega
-Trebbiano di Soave
-Chardonnay
Red wines from:
-Merlot
-Rondinella
-Cabernet Sauvignon
Single varietal wines from:
-Chardonnay
-Pinot Bianco
-Pinot Grigio
-Merlot
178
Where is Lower Lombardia located?
The sub-region Lower Lombardia (Bassa Lombardia) lies in the flatlands along the Po River in the southeastern corner of Lombardia within the province of Mantova.
179
What feature in Lower Lombardia influences the local climate?
The proximity of the Po River serves to moderate the continental climate.
180
What is the only DOC of Lower Lombardia?
Lambrusco Mantovano DOC; it is also the only appellation outside of Emilia-Romagna that produces wines from Lambrusco.
The style is similar to the Lambruscos produced in the bordering Emilia-Romagna.
181
What variety of Lambrusco is used in Lambrusco Mantovano DOC?
Several varieties of Lambrusco can be used to produce this red frizzante wine, however the local and native Lambrusco Viadanese usually accounts for the majority in the blend.
182
What are the characteristics of wines from Lambrusco Mantovano DOC?
They are deep ruby in colour with bright and delicious aromas of violets, cherries and sweet spices. They are robust and have a tannic grip.
183
What are the sub-zones of Lambrusco Mantovano DOC?
Lambrusco Mantovano DOC is divided into 2 sub-zones:
-the eastern Oltrepo Mantovano on the southern bank of the Po
-the western Viadanese-Sabbionetano on the northern back.
Both sub-zones can appear on the label.
