Module 7: Chapter 10 - Italy Flashcards
1
Q
Primary red grape of Valpolicella.*
A
Corvina
2
Q
Primary grape variety of Prosecco.*
A
Glera
3
Q
Sweet wine made in Valpolicella.*
A
Recioto della Valpolicella
4
Q
Name used for Bardolino rose’.*
A
Chiaretto (name is used for other wines as well)
5
Q
Appellation used for sparkling wines in Trentino.*
A
Trento DOC
6
Q
Grape variety of Barolo and Barbaresco.*
A
Nebbiolo
7
Q
Grape variety of Gavi.*
A
Cortese
8
Q
Alternative name for Nebbiolo used in parts of Piedmont.*
A
Spanna
9
Q
Sparkling wines produced in Piedmont.*
A
Asti
Moscato d’Asti
Brachetto d’Acqui
10
Q
Metodo Classico sparkling wine produced in Lombardy.*
A
Franciacorta
11
Q
Leading grape of Piedmont (by acreage).*
A
Barbera
12
Q
Alternative name for Nebbiolo used in Valtellina.*
A
Chiavannasca
13
Q
The “original” Super-Tuscan.*
A
Sassicaia
14
Q
The seven sub-zones of the Chianti DOCG.*
A
Colli Aretini, Colli Fiorentini, Colli Pisane, Colli Senesi, Matalbano, Montespertoli, Rufina
15
Q
Tuscany’s DOCG white wine.*
A
Vernaccia di San Gimignano
16
Q
White DOCG wine of Emilia-Romagna.*
A
Albana di Romagna
17
Q
Region that produces Orvieto.*
A
Umbria
18
Q
Main grapes of Frascati and Est! Est!! Est!!!*
A
Trebbiano and Malvasia
19
Q
Main grape of Taurasi.*
A
Aglianico
20
Q
Region that produces Marsala.*
A
Sicily
21
Q
Where does Italy rank among producers, consumers, and exporters of wine worldwide?
A
Often vies with France for most production, long the top wine exporter, and always among the biggest consumers of wine worldwide.
22
Q
What do some of the unique wines of Italy perpetuate?
A
Traditional winemaking techniques rarely seen outside of the country.
23
Q
Some of the classic, distinctive Italian wine styles have no direct imitators. Why?
A
The distinctive grape varieties those wines are based on have yet to be planted extensively outside of Italy.
24
Q
Much of the Italian wine exported is to the United States. Why?
A
There is a large volume of well-made, reasonably priced, extremely food-friendly wine for everyday consumption.
25
What is the climate of Italy, generally?
Temperate zone. Long, hot summer days and cold winters, with clearly recognizable springs and falls.
There is considerable difference between the cool northern and hot southern portions of the country.
26
The Mediterranean acts as a moderating influence on the weather. Why?
Outside of the north, there are very few places in the country farther than 75 miles from the sea. This reduces summer heat by a few degrees and wards off the worst of the winter cold.
27
Topographically, what is distinct about Italy?
It is very mountainous, with little flat land outside of Puglia in the heel, and the Po River Valley in the north.
28
What led to the profusion of different winemaking techniques and remarkable variety of vines?
Rugged terrain and centuries of political discord.
29
The Apennines run the length of the peninsula. What is the other major mountain chain in Italy? What does it do?
The Alps form the entire northern border, holding back the Arctic air masses that hit northern Europe. There are also high altitude vineyard sites with large diurnal shifts.
30
How many regions are there in Italy?
20. 18 on the mainland, plus the islands of Sicily and Sardinia.
31
Where is the industrial heartland of Italy?
The northern tier, around the cities of Milan, Turin, and Venice. The rich agricultural land of the Po River Basin is also there.
32
Which well known wine regions are in the northern tier of Italy?
Piedmont and Veneto, along with up and coming Alto Adige.
33
Where is Tuscany?
On the more populated western coast, along the Tyrrhenian Sea.
34
What is the eastern, Adriatic coast, known for?
It is more rural and agricultural, and tends to be planted more to indigenous Italian varieties.
35
The Mediterranean lies south of Sicily. Three other seas surround Italy. Name them, from west to east around the peninsula.
Tyrrhenian, Ionian, Adriatic.
36
Italy relies heavily on indigenous varieties at home. Which two have become widely planted outside of Italy?
Sangiovese and Barbera.
| International varieties are now becoming more commonly planted inside Italy as well.
37
What causes the variation in flavor profile and quality amongst even grapes of the same grape variety?
Terroir is part of this, but within the same variety a number of clones or subvarieties may have developed over the centuries of a grape growing in an isolated area.
38
Are mutations common in indigenous Italian varieties?
Yes. Some have developed white pink, or red versions. Others are named for here they are grown (Trebbiano Toscano), or other characteristics, like Sangiovese Grosso (large).
39
How many varieties are allowed in Italian wines? How many if subvarieties are included?
More than 400 varieties. If subs are included, the number is closer to 2,000.
40
Several varieties are found throughout the peninsula. Which indigenous, and which international?
Trebbiano Toscano, Sangiovese are indigenous.
| Chardonnay, Muscat, Merlot, and Cab Sauv are international. All are found throughout the country.
41
True or false: Most of Italy's grape varieties are closely associated with one section of the country.
True. Sangiovese, while widely planted, is known as the grape of Tuscany. Nebbiolo is the grape of Piedmont, etc.
42
When did Italian protection efforts for names and wine origins begin?
Early 1700's, with the delineation of Chianti areas within the Grand Duchy of Tuscany.
43
What do modern Italian wine laws regulate?
Many aspects of production including, but not limited to, which varieties can be planted, crop yield, viticultural practices, and winemaking techniques.
44
Although based on the French appellation system, how many quality designations does Italy have? What are they?
4. Vino (basic table wine), Indicazione geografica tipica (IGT), Denominazione di origine controllata (DOC), and Denominazione di origine controllata e garantita (DOCG)
45
How much of Italian wine production is accounted for by the Vino category?
Vino (or Vini Varietali) account for 40% of Italian production. Following EU rules, they are now allowed to place vintage date, variety, and production zone on the label provided they meet EU standards.
46
When was the IGT category created? Why?
1992, for winemakers who felt DOC/DOCG regulations were too restrictive.
Some wished to use grapes not approved in their area, or modify the percentages in a blend to make a better overall wine, but without the IGT category, they would only qualify for Vino status.
47
Where were the first IGT wines from?
Tuscany. As such, they are referred to as Super Tuscans.
IGT now produces 30% of Italian wine, and represents the PGI category of EU wines. They may carry a variety (85% must be that grape), vintage date, and IGT region.
48
How many IGT regions are in Italy?
More than a hundred.
49
What separates DOCG wines from DOC wines?
A higher level of specifications, denoted by a special guarantee of the government (Garantita). Wines that have been successfully evaluated get a numbered government seal over the cork.
50
When was the DOCG category created? When were the first ones awarded?
DOCG was created in 1963, but the first were not awarded until 1980. Among the first awarded were Barolo, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.
51
How many DOC and DOCG are there in Italy (as of Dec 2019)?
75 DOCG
334 DOC
The numbers will continue to change from year to year.
52
How many terms may appear on the label within the PDO (DOC/DOCG) category of Italian wines?
3. Classico, Superiore, Riserva
| These often appear as part of the wine region's name; i.e. Chianti Classico DOCG, Soave Superiore DOCG
53
What does Classico denote on an Italian wine label?
A central or historic subzone within a larger geographic region. The territory is often the original center of wine production in the area, and often considered superior to the surrounding areas.
54
What does Superiore denote on a PDO Italian wine label?
A wine that has a specific higher level of alcohol content than that required of its corresponding normale wine. Usually produced using a lower yield of grapes, higher ripeness level, or both.
55
What does Riserva denote on a PDO Italian wine label?
Wines that have been aged for a longer minimum than their corresponding regular wines. Total aging time varies according to type and style of wine.
56
How much wine does Veneto produce?
A large percentage of Italy's total wine, as well as the largest quantity, by volume, of its DOC and DOCG wines.
57
What borders Veneto?
North- Austria and Trentino-Alto Adige
East- Friuli-Venezia Giulia and the Adriatic
South- Emilia-Romagna
West- Lombardy
58
Topographically, Veneto divides into two sections. Describe them.
The south and east are flat and formed by deposits of river sediment emptying into the Adriatic.
The north and west are abruptly mountainous, and it is these foothills (and their valleys) where the majority of the renowned grapes of the Veneto are grown.
59
What important feature forms part of the southern border of Veneto?
The Po River, Italy's longest.
60
What is the climate of the Veneto?
Being so close to both the Alps and the Mediterranean, it varies. The river flatlands and delta can get quite hot and humid in the summer, the slopes of the north and west staying cooler and breezier.
In the winter, it is one of the colder parts or Italy, but the Alps keep the coldest air at bay. The western side of Veneto is moderated by Lake Garda.
61
What are the three red varieties most closely associated with Veneto?
Corvina, Corvinone, and Rondinella.
| Corvinone was long thought to be a clone of Corvina, but is a distinct, but closely related, variety.
62
Which of the three red Veneto mainstays is considered the quality grape?
Corvina. It generally makes up the largest portion of the blend.
63
In wines that require Corvina, how much of the required Corvina portion may now be substituted.
Up to 50% of the portion may now be Corvinone.
64
What is the primary white grape of Veneto?
Garganega.
| Glera is also prevalent, providing the base for Veneto sparkling wine.
65
What are the common international varieties in Veneto?
Merlot, Cab Sauv, Cab Franc, Pinot Grigio, Pinot Bianco, and Chardonnay.
66
True or false: Veneto produces predominantly red wine.
False. Veneto produces slightly more white wine than red.
67
Glera used to be known as Prosecco. When was that changed?
In 2010 a new set of regulations restricted the use of Prosecco to only the region. Only wines produced in the region may now be called Prosecco, everything else is Glera.
68
What is process called for producing dried-grape wines in the Veneto? Describe.
Appassimento.
Ripe bunches are handpicked at harvest, but set out to dry. Traditionally they are placed in slatted boxes, hung from the ceiling rafters by hooks, or laid on open shelves. The grapes are left to dry until mid-January r longer, losing some 60% or more of their water.
69
After drying, what happens to the appassimento grapes?
For most, a long, cool fermentation starts and extends into March, April, or even May before being arrested by chilling the wine when alcohol reaches roughly 12%.
The resulting wine still has considerable RS, and is called recioto.
If CO2 is retained in a pressure tank, sparkling recioto can be produced.
70
What is the model for fermenting appassimento grapes to full dryness?
Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG. Fermenting completely dry leads to alcohol levels of 15% to 16%
71
What is ripasso?
The method of taking lees of appassimento grapes, combining them with young wine, and initiating a short second fermentation. Ripasso wines have more flavor, tannin, and alcohol.
72
How many DOCG in Veneto?
14, with Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG among the most distinguished.
73
What are the four styles produced within the boundaries of Valpolicella DOC?
Valpolicella DOC, Valpolicella Ripasso DOC, Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG, and Recioto della Valpolicella DOCG
74
Where is Valpolicella DOC?
The hills north of Verona.
75
How long does Amarone have to be aged, and what is its minimum alcohol?
2 years of aging because of its appassimento method, and a minimum of 14%, though most producers reach 15% or higher.
76
What are the rules for label variations in Valpolicella?
Classico: Must be grown in the heart of the historic growing region,
Superiore: Aged at least one year, and a minimum alcohol level of 12% as opposed to 11% in normale.
77
Where is Bardolino DOC and Bardolino DOCG made?
In the western Veneto around Lake Garda, following similar recipe to Valpolicella, and the same rules.
Bardolino is also made as a chiaretto (rose) style of wine.
78
What are the preeminent white wines of Veneto?
Soave DOC is the preeminent still white wine. It must be at least 70% Garganega, and may be blended with Chardonnay and Trebbiano di Soave (local name for Verdicchio). Soave DOC has a central classico zone, and makes a large production volume (when including Soave Superiore DOCG and Recioto di Soave DOCG).
79
What is the minimum percentage of Glera to be Prosecco?
85%
80
What does the Prosecco appellation cover?
Northern and eastern Veneto, as well as all of Friuli-Venezia Giulia.
81
What are the DOCG that produce Prosecco?
Conegliano-Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG and Asolo Prosecco DOCG (Colli Asolani)
Both represent specific areas renowned for their historic quality vineyards and wines.
82
Where is Lugana DOC and what does it make?
In the west, straddling the border with Lombardy. It makes a pleasant, light white based on Trebbiano di Lugana (recently found to be closely related, but not identical, to Verdicchio.
83
Confusingly, several areas produce both traditional and modern wines that may come from the same geographical region of Italy, but have different appellations. Give an example.
Piave DOC makes both dry and appassimento wines from traditional and int'l varieties.
However, Piave Malanotte DOCG, occupying the same location, is only approved for red wines based on the indigenous Raboso variety.
84
International varieties are important in the Veneto. What wines do they feature in?
Both IGT and DOC wines.
85
A three region DOC was created in 2017. Where is it, and what is it known for?
Delle Venezie DOC. It encompasses the entire area of the Veneto, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, and Trentino regions. It allows for multi-regional varietal wine, like the well-known Pinot Grigio, be labeled as DOC.
86
How many IGT are in Veneto?
10, including the general Veneto IGT and larger Trevenezie IGT.
87
What borders Trentino-Alto Adige?
Austria to the north, Slovenia to the east, Gulf of venice on the southeast.
88
What is the alternate name for Alto adige?
Sudtirol. German is the predominant language.
89
What language is dominant in Trentino?
Italian, based around the town of Trento.
90
Is there a lot of agriculture in Trentino-Alto Adige?
No. Grapes grow in the main valleys, but the steep mountain valleys don't leave a lot of room for anything else.
91
How much of Trentino-Alto Adige's production is DOC status?
More than 80%, and nearly all of the remainder is IGT status. Most of it is varietally labeled.
92
What are the primary white grapes of Trentino-Alto Adige?
Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Pinot Bianco, Muller-Thurgau, and Traminer (Gewurz)
93
What are the primary reds of Trentino-Alto Adige?
Cab Franc, Cab Sauv, Lagrein, Merlot, Marzemino, Schiava, and Teroldego.
94
What is the appellation for the Trentino-Alto Adige's respected sparkling wines.
Trento DOC (locally Trentodoc).
95
What is Friuli-Venezia Giulia usually shortened to?
Friuli (as below)
96
What are the commercially important international varieties in Friuli?
Cab Sauv, Chardonnay Pinot Nero (Noir), Pinot Grigio, Riesling, and Sauvignon Blanc
97
What are the indigenous varieties making strides recently in Friuli?
Refosco (red), and Verduzzo, Picolit, and Friulano (Sauv Blanc relative, until recently called Tocai Friulano)
98
What are the best DOC for white wine in Friuli?
Friuli Colli Orientali DOC (and its DOCG for sweet whites of Picolit) and Collio Goriziano DOC (often just called Collio).
99
What is produced in Collio?
A long list of allowed grapes, but a several white blends labeled Collio Bianco, as well as skin-fermented orange wines from native Ribolla Gialla, often in an oxidized style.
100
There are two outstanding DOCG in Friuli, what are they?
Ramandolo DOCG - Makes sweet whites from Verduzzo (rarely seen outside of northeast Italy)
Rosazzo DOCG - Makes dry whites with a minimum of 50% Friulano, with Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Bianco, and Ribolla Gialla allowed.
101
What is Piedmont renowned for?
Barolo and Barbaresco primarily, but also for its sparkling wines.
102
Where does Piedmont rank in Italian production of DOC and DOCG wines?
Second, behind Veneto.
While its production by volume is behind Veneto, it's proportion of PDO wine is the highest in Italy. (Makes less total PDO wine, but more of what it makes overall is PDO quality.)
103
What borders Piedmont?
France on the west
Valle d'Aosta and Switzerland to the north
Lombardy to the east
Liguria to the south
104
What is unique about the overall shape of Piedmont?
It forms a sort of half bowl, with the upper (western) part of the Po, surrounded on three sides by mountains (Alps and Apennines).
105
Where are the grapes of Piedmont grown?
In the areas of low hills and ridges forming the center of the basin (the Langhe and Monferrato hills). The flatlands are too fertile for grape growing.
106
Where are the Langhe and Monferrato hills?
South of the town of Asti.
107
Describe the climate of Piedmont.
Summers are warm and dry, with frequent fog in autumn. Winters are cold and snowy as Piedmont is cut off from the Mediterranean by the mountains of Liguria.
108
What are the primary red grapes of Piedmont?
Nebbiolo- Tannic and high acid, produces Barolo and Barbaresco
Barbera- Lighter, but most planted.
Dolcetto, Freisa, Grignolino, and Brachetto
109
What are the leading white grapes of Piedmont?
Moscato, Arneis, Cortese.
110
Most international varieties are not widely planted in Piedmont. Which two are?
Chardonnay and Pinot Noir have been there for more than a century.
111
How much of Piedmont's production is red?
About 2/3
112
What is the common feature of the red wines of Piedmont?
Notable acidity. It is a cool climate region, and the acidity gives the big wines their longevity and the lighter styles their refreshing finish.
It also allows the whites to be both medium bodied and delicately aromatic.
113
How are sparkling wines in Piedmont produced?
Trad Method, tank, and partial fermentation, dry to sweet, in white to red.
114
How many PDO level designations does Piedmont have?
17 DOCG
More than 40 DOC
There are no, 0, IGT in Piedmont.
115
What is the most general appellation in Piedmont?
Piedmont DOC, which covers the whole region and allows still and sparkling wines from more than a dozen varieties.
116
What is the next largest appellation in Piedmont?
Langhe DOC, which surrounds and includes the vineyards of Barolo, Barbaresco, and Roero, along with the areas surrounding the towns of Alba and Ovada.
117
True or false: Many of the main appellations of Piedmont are tied to a single grape variety.
True. Nebbiolo, for example, is the sole or primary varietal in 7 DOCGs and several DOCs.
118
What are the two powerhouses of Piedmont made of 100% Nebbiolo?
Barolo and Barbaresco, named for the historic hill towns of the same names.
119
Describe Barolo.
Intense, dry, robust but velvety red, tannic and high in alcohol.
120
What aging is required on Barolo DOCG wines?
38 months for normale, 62 months for Barolo Riserva.
121
Describe Barbaresco, and its aging requirements.
Resembling barolo, but slightly less powerful and more elegant. Minimum aging of 26 months for normale, and 50 months for Riserva.
122
What is Asti?
Both a town, and a very popular sparkling wine made from 100% Muscat Blanc a Petits Grains (Moscato Bianco, locally). Asti DOCG is a fully sparkling (spumante, locally) version, produced by Charmat, full of peach and apricot.
123
What is the difference between Asti DOCG and Asti Metodo Classico DOCG?
Asti Metodo Classico must be produced by Traditional Method and age 9 months on the lees, but still have a degree of residual sugar.
124
Describe Moscato d'Asti DOCG.
Frizzante (Slightly sparkling), made by partial fermentation in which a single fermentation in a pressurized tank is halted by refrigeration, leaving substantial RS.
125
What does Barbera d'Asti have to contain?
90% Barbera from the area surrounding the town of Asti. It was approved in 2008 as a DOCG.
126
What does Nizza DOCG have to contain?
100% Barbera grapes, aged for a minimum of 18 months (normale) or 30 months (riserva). A former subregion of Barbera d'Asti, became its own DOCG in 2014.
127
What is made in Roero DOCG?
Both reds and whites.
Red: Less concentrated, earlier drinking Nebbiolo from the hills across the Tanaro River from Barbaresco.
White: A white made from 100% Arneis.
128
What is made in the Gattinara and Ghemma DOCGs?
Blends based around Nebbiolo (locally called Spanna). Five neighboring DOCs also feature Spanna-based blends.
129
Where is Gavi DOCG, and what does it produce?
Southeast corner of Piedmont. It makes a crisp, floral white wine from the Cortese grape. The DOCG is also known Cortese di Gavi or Gavi del Comune di Gavi (Gavi di Gavi).
130
What is the other name Brachetto d'Acqui DOCG, and what does it produce?
Also known as Acqui, produces a range of wines based on the Brachetto grape, the best known of which is slightly sweet, sparkling, and full of red berry and floral aromas.
131
What are some of the common grape-named DOCs of Piedmont?
Barbera d'Alba DOC, Grignolino d'Asti DOC, and Dolcetto d'Acqui DOC.
Typically grape named DOCs are made from 100% of the named variety.
132
Does Piedmont make any fortified wines?
Yes. Vermouth is another specialty of Piedmont. Fortified and flavored with spices, herbs, aromatic woods, and other natural ingredients. It is typically red.
133
Where is Lombardy?
At the center of the semi-circle formed on Italy's northern border by the Alps.
134
What is Lombardy primarily known for?
The sparkling wines of Franciacorta DOCG, made by Trad Method from Chardonnay, Pinot Bianco, and Pinot Nero. (As of 2017, limited amounts of Erbamat may be used as well).
135
What are the aging requirements of Franciacorta DOCG?
A minimum of 18 months on the lees for NV; 30 months for Vintage dated versions; Riserva requires 60 months on the lees.
136
What is Saten?
A brut blanc de blancs from Franciacorta with only 5 atmos of pressure. This and rose styles require 24 months on the lees.
137
When can lees aging begin for Franciacorta?
For all versions, the required lees aging tim cannot begin until Feb 1 of the year following the harvest.
138
Where is Valtellina, and what does it produce?
A long east-west valley in Lombardy, known for being one of the few successful places outside of Piedmont to make wine from Nebbiolo.
139
What is Nebbiolo called in Valtellina, and what are its DOC and DOCG requirements?
In Valtellina, it is called Chiavennasca.
| In both Valtellina DOC and Valtellina Superiore DOCG, 90% of the wine is required to be Chiavennasca.
140
What is Sforzato di Valtellina DOCG?
A dry, high-alcohol wine of 90% minimum Chiavennasca made using the sfursat method of partial drying.
The passito style wine is dry, rich, and has a minimum alcohol content of 14%.
141
What are the 5 subzones of Valtellina Superiore DOCG?
Grumello, Inferno, Maroggia, Sassella, Valgella.
142
Why is Tuscany the most famous wine region of Italy?
Partially it's tourism and partially from Chianti, of the largest volume quality wines of Italy.
143
What is the signature variety of Tuscany?
Sangiovese.
144
Where is Tuscany?
On the west coast of Italy, north of Rome. It's primary cities are Florence, Siena, and Pisa.
145
What borders Tuscany?
Emilia-Romagna to the northeast, Umbria and Lazio to the southeast.
146
What is the climate of Tuscany?
Unsurprisingly, Mediterranean. There are greater extremes of temperature in the inland valleys, where summers can get quite hot.
147
Are there many clones of Sangiovese?
Yes, hundreds. Some give more color, some aromatics, some more tannin; this leads most producers to grow a variety of clones for optimal complexity.
148
How many clones has the Chianti Classico Consortium identified as being the best for regional use?
7.
149
What are the primary indigenous varieties used in small quantities as blending grapes in Tuscany?
Canaiolo Nero for body. Colorino for (shockingly) pigment and tannins.
International varieties like Cab Sauv, Merlot, Syrah, and even Pinot Noir are appearing in blends or on their own in Tuscany.
150
What are the traditional white grapes of Tuscany?
Trebbiano Toscano, Malvasia Bianca Lunga, and Vernaccia. Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc are on the increase.
151
How much of Tuscany's production is red wine? Which region is the only one with a higher focus on reds?
90% of the regional production of Tuscany is focused on red. Only Calabria is higher.
152
What are the traditional hallmarks of Tuscan Sangiovese-based blends?
Light-colored, high in acid, moderate in tannin, and full of bright cherry and red berry aromas and flavors.
Upper end versions that are 100 percent Sangiovese are similar, but with greater depth of flavor and complexity.
153
What is governo?
A traditional winemaking technique allowed in the wines of Chianti.
It involves the use of grapes the have become overripe on the vine or dried after harvest. They are introduced into a batch of fermenting wine just as it is finishing fermentation to extend fermentation and/or initiate malolactic fermentation.
This creates a richer, rounder, less volatile wine with softer acids. It is somewhat rare and must be noted on the label as Governo all'uso Toscano.
154
True or false: Most Tuscan white wines are for local consumption.
True. A major exception is the Vernaccia produced in and around the town of San Gimignano, a light to medium wine with pear and almond aromas.
155
What is a dessert specialty of Tuscany that is also made all over Italy?
Vin Santo. Grapes are harvested and hung in attic rafters like Veneto's recioto. They are then put into small barrels with a bit of the previous vintage's vin santo lees, initiating a new fermentation.
The barrels are then sealed tight and left in an attic for minimum of three years, exposing it to natural temp extremes. The better producers will age for 5-6 years.
156
What is Vin Santo typically made from in Tuscany? What is the typical flavor profile?
White wines, primarily Trebbiano Toscano and Malvasia Bianca Lunga. A light red or amber version can be made from Sangiovese called occhio di pernice (eye of the partridge).
It is typically sweet, although dry versions do exist. It is considered the ideal accompaniment to cantucci or biscotti.
157
Is "Super-Tuscan" an official category?
No. Just a well-known and highly regarded style in Tuscany since the 1970s.
158
Where did Super Tuscans come from?
Dissatisfaction with the rules regarding what could go in Chianti in the late 60's and early 70's. The rules required small portions of other grapes, including white varietals, and many winemakers thought this limited quality.
Some wanted 100% Sangio, some to stop using whites, some to international varieties like Cab Sauv and Merlot.
159
What was the first Super Tuscan?
Tenuta San Guido's Sassicaia, Cabernet Sauvignon-Cab Franc blend first commercially released as a vino di tavola in 1968 (after several decades of family use only).
160
What was the second Super Tuscan?
Antinori's Tignanello, made from a blend of Sangiovese and Cab Sauv.
Antinori also made a Super Tuscan called Solaia from Cab Sauv and Cab Franc. Both of these blends have evolved since.
161
After the advent of Super Tuscans, the rules of Chianti changed. How?
100% Sangiovese wines are now allowed, while Chianti Classico now allows up to 20% of other 'locally grown' varieties, including Cab Sauv, Merlot, and Syrah.
162
Super Tuscans are allowed in Chianti Classico DOCG. Are they allowed in any other designation?
Yes. Certain DOCs have changed their rules to allow them, or been established specifically for them, while other Super Tuscans use the Toscana IGT designation.
163
What is the most prominent appellation in Tuscany?
Chianti. It remains the biggest in terms of name recognition.
164
When was Chianti originally demarcated? What is it called now?
1716. It lies in the hills between Florence and Siena and is now called Chianti Classico.
The Chianti appellation has expanded and been subdivided several times since 1716.
165
Where can Basic Chianti DOCG be made?
Anywhere within the Chianti zone that isn't specifically Chianti Classico.
166
What must Basic Chianti DOCG contain?
A minimum of 70% Sangiovese, and is allowed to be up to 100% Sangiovese.
Other grapes allowed are Canaiolo Nero, the whites Trebbiano Toscano and Malvasia, and "other suitable red varieties" which allows for international varieties.
167
How many subzones are there within Chianti? (Not counting Chianti Classico)
```
7.
Colli Aretini
Colli Fiorentini
Colli Senesi
Colline Pisane
Rufina
Montalbano
Montespertoli
```
168
Each Chianti subzone has its own set of standards for parameters like vineyard density, minimum alcohol, and aging. Give an example.
Colli Senesi requires a minimum of 75% Sangiovese, while Chianti DOCG and each of the other 6 subzones require 70%
169
How were the formula rules for Chianti Classico changed, and when?
The standards for Chianti Classico DOCG are higher than Chianti DOCG. Classico must now contain at least 80% (but up to 100%) Sangiovese, have a 12% minimum alcohol, cannot be released until a year after harvest, and no longer allows white varieties as of 2006.
Riserva requires 2 years of aging and an additional half degree of alcohol.
170
When did the Chianti Classico Consortium add its most recent category?
What is it and what are its rules?
In 2014 the CCC added Chianti Classico Gran Selezione. The wines must be produced from exclusively estate-grown grapes, 30 months minimum aging, and stricter sensory and technical parameters.
171
What is Brunello di Montalcino made from, and where?
Made in the hill town of Montalcino, it must be 100% Brunello (local name for Sangiovese) and is one of the most powerful expressions of the grape.
It must be aged a minimum of just over 4 years, at least of which are in oak, and at least 4 months of which are in the bottle.
It may not be old before January 1 of the 5th year after harvest.
172
Why is Rosso di Montalcino "baby Brunello"?
Same grape, but lighter with shorter aging specifications.
173
What is the local name for Sangiovese in Vino Nobile di Montepulciano? How much of the blend does it have to be?
Prugnolo Gentile, it must be 70% of the blend.
Similar to Montalcino, and Rosso version with shorter aging requirements exists here as well.
174
What is unique about Carmignano DOCG?
It introduced the use of small amounts of Cab Sauv and Cab Franc more than a century ago, long before Super Tuscans.
The current blend is a minimum of 50% Sangiovese, along with 10-20% of either Cabernet, or both combined.
175
Where is Morellino di Scansano DOCG? What is the blending requirement?
Morellino is the local name for Sangiovese in this southernmost part of Tuscany, where at least 85% of the blend has to be Morellino.
176
Sassicaia was introduced in this region in 1968.
Maremma DOC, the coastal area of Tuscany. The Super Tuscan movement was born here, near the town of Bolgheri.
177
How many designations are there in the southern coastal region of Tuscany?
3.
Bolgheri DOC - Red and white blends
Bolgheri Sassicaia- Created in 2013 for reds with a minimum 80% Cabernet Sauvignon.
Maremma Toscana DOC - Elevated from IGT in 2011
178
What is Tuscany's best known white wine?
Vernaccia di San Gimignano. The grape is quite ancient, and was mentioned by Dante in the Divine Comedy.
It was made a DOC region in 1966, and DOCG in 1993.
179
What are the 4 DOCs for Vin Santo in Tuscany?
```
Vin Santo del Chianti DOC
Vin Santo del Chianti Classico DOC
Vin Santo di Montepulciano DOC
Vin Santo di Carmignano DOC
(it can also be produced under the DOCs of several other Tuscan areas including Pomino and Elba)
```
180
Where is Emilia-Romagna?
Stretches across the top of Italy. Triangularly shaped, much of it lies in the Po Valley.
181
Emilia Romagna is the home to the first white Italian wine to earn DOCG status. What is it?
Romagna Albana DOCG, which was Albana di Romagna prior to 2011.
182
How many Lambrusco DOCs are there?
3.
Lambrusco Salamino di Santa Croce DOC, Lambrusco Grasparossa di Castelvetro DOC, and Lambrusco di Sorbara DOC.
It is produced as well in both Modena and Reggiano DOCs, and is produced in dry and rose versions, in addition to the commonly assumed slightly sweet and simple version.
183
What produces Lambrusco outside of Emilia-Romagna?
Lambrusco Mantovano DOC, in Lombardy.
184
What else is Emilia-Romagna home to?
Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, Prosciutto di Parma and balsamic vinegar from Modena.
185
Where is the Marches region?
On the Adriatic coast of Italy.
186
How many DOC/DOCG wines are in Marches?
5 DOCG and 15 DOC
187
What is the Marches region well known for?
White wines based on Verdicchio.
Other whites include Pecorino and Passerina.
Reds are Montepulciano and Sangiovese.
188
What are the best known wines of the Marches?
- Castelli di Jesi Verdicchio DOCG and di Matelica Riserva DOCG: crisp, neural whites from Verdicchio.
- Conero DOCG and Rosso Conero DOC: Blends of Montepulciano and Sangiovese. Both must be minimum 85% Montepulciano, allowed up to 15% Sangiovese. DOCG has higher aging and alcohol standards than DOC
- Rosso Piceno DOC- Red blend that includes 25-85 Montepulciano an 15-50% Sangiovese
189
Where is Abruzzo?
South of the Marches on the Adriatic coast.
190
What is the primary grape of Abruzzo?
The Montepulciano grape, Montepulciano d'Abruzzo, which must be 85% of the blend in Montepulciano d'Abruzzo DOC.
191
What is the difference between Montepulciano d'Abruzzo and Cerasuolo d'Abruzzo?
Cerasuolo is lighter colored, lighter bodied, and undergoes shorter maceration. The DOC was created in 2010. It has lower tannins an brighter fruit flavors.
192
What are Abruzzo's two DOCGs?
Colline Teramane Montepulciano d'Abruzzo DOCG and Tullum DOCG, both based on Montepulciano.
193
What is the white grape of Abruzzo?
Trebbiano d'Abruzzo DOC, based on the Trebbiano Abruzzese grape.
194
Where is Umbria?
In the Apennines between Tuscany and Marches.
195
What is the best known wine of Umbria?
Orvieto DOC, made from Grechetto and Trebbiano Toscano.
| Typically it's a dry wine (secco) but also comes in semi-dry (abbocato), semi-sweet (amabile), and sweet (dolce).
196
What are the two DOCG of Umbria?
Both are red: Montefalco Sagrantino, from 100% Sagrantino; and Torgiano Rosso Riserva, which has a minimum of 70% Sangiovese.
197
Where is Lazio?
Lazio is the area surrounding Rome on the west coast of Italy (formerly Latium).
198
What are the most recognized types of wine from Lazio?
Frascati (DOC and DOCG), and Est! Est!! Est!!! di Montefiascone DOCG. Most are dry whites.
Cannellino di Frascati DOCG is an obscure weet wine whose harvest dates are tied to the feast of San Crispino.
199
What are the white wines of Lazio based on?
Trebbiano Toscano, Trebbiano Giallo, Malvasia Bianca di Candia, and Malvasia di Lazio
200
Where is Campania?
The area surrounding the town of Naples. This is the most populated area of southern Italy.
201
What is soil of Campania like?
Volcanic.
202
What grows in the volcanic soils of Campania?
Aglianico (red) which makes the best known Taurasi DOCG; Fiano di Avellina DOCG and Greco di Tufo DOCG, as well as several versions of Falanghina.
203
Vesuvio DOC is a famous subsection of Campania, why?
Lacryma Christi del Vesuvio, made in red, white, rosato, spumante, and liquoroso (fortified) versions.
204
Where is Calabria?
The 'toe of the boot'.
205
What is the most prominent appellation of Calabria?
Ciro DOC. Rosso is made from Gaglioppo, white from Greco Bianco.
206
What is the confusing name of the dessert wine from Campania?
Greco di Bianco, made from the partially dried Greco Bianco grapes grown around the town of Bianco.
207
Where is Puglia (Apulia)? WHat does it make?
The 'heel of the boot'. It makes predominantly red wines, and is well known for Saiec Salentino DOC.
208
What is the primary red grape of Puglia? What are others?
Negroamaro, a robust, dark colored grape.
| Montepulciano, Sangiovese, Primitivo, Barbera, and Aleatico are others.
209
What was the first Puglia DOCG?
Primitivo di Manduria Dolce Naturale, in 2011.
210
How many more DOCGs were awarded to Puglia in 2011?
3.
Castel del Monte Nero di Troia Riserva DOCG
Castel del Monte Rosso Riserva DOCG
Castel del Monte Bombino Nero DOCG
211
Where is Sicily?
An island to the south and west of Italy.
212
What is the climate of Sicily?
Reliably sunny, with hot summer temps.
213
Where does Sicily rank among Italian production volume?
Top 3, rivalling Veneto for overall volume.
214
As of 2012, what changed in Sicilian wine production?
Previously, the majority had been IGT level wine. As of 2012, Sicilia DOC has replaced Sicilia IGT, which accounted for 17% of all of Italy's IGT production.
215
What is Sicily's only DOCG?
Cerasuolo di Vittoria, a blend of the native Nero d'Avola and Frappato (a low tannin, aromatic red grape).
216
What is produced at higher elevations on Sicily?
White wines from Carricante and Grecanico.
217
What is the most famous wine of southern Italy?
Marsala, whose home is Sicily.
218
What are the primary grapes of Marsala?
Inzolia, Grillo, and Catarratto.
219
How many types of Marsala are there?
3. All can be made dry (secco, 4% max RS), semisecco (semi-dry, 4-10% RS), or sweet (dolce, 10+% RS)
Oro: Golden.
Ambra: Amber.
Rubino: Ruby/red
220
What are the aging requirements for Marsala?
Fine - 1 year
Superiore - 2 years
Superiore Riserva - 4 years
Vergine and Solera - minimum of five years in a Solera system.
221
What is the most esteemed version of Marsala?
Vergine Stravecchio Riserva, minimum ten years cask aging.
222
Sardinia is also south and west of Italy. What does it produce?
Cannonau di Sardegna is a major grape, produced n many DOCs covering much or most of the island.
223
What is required in Cannonau di Sardegna DOC, and Riserva?
85% in DOC, 90% in Riserva.
224
What is Cannonau the local name for?
Grenache (Garnacha)
225
What is the white grape of Sardinia?
Vermentino. Vermentino di Gallura DOCG is the most prized, grown on the northern tip.
