Piemonte Flashcards
1
Q
What village is closely associated with the Nascetta grape?
A
Novello
2
Q
What is the production method for Alta Langa DOCG?
A
Traditional Method Sparkling
3
Q
What is the approximate alcohol content in Moscato d’Asti DOCG?
A
5-5.5% ABV
4
Q
What is the minimum percentage of Nebbiolo in Roero DOCG?
A
95%
5
Q
What is the maximum pressure (atmosphere) of Moscato d’Asti DOCG?
A
2.5 atmospheres
6
Q
What is the percentage of Cortese required in Gavi DOCG?
A
100%
7
Q
How many communes can make Barolo DOCG?
A
11
8
Q
What is the grape Uva Rara called in Northern Piemonte?
A
Bonarda
9
Q
What is the principal white grape of Caluso?
A
Erbaluce
10
Q
In which village would you most likely find the grape Pelaverga Piccolo?
A
Verduno
11
Q
Which grape’s name translates as “little sweet one”?
A
Dolcetto
12
Q
Barbaresco is on which bank of the Tanaro river?
A
Right
13
Q
The first MGAs created in Piemonte were in which DOCG?
A
Diano d’Alba DOCG
14
Q
Which clone of Nebbiolo is considered lesser quality and higher yielding?
A
Bolla
15
Q
The town of Castagnole is associated with what aromatic red grape variety?
A
Ruchè
16
Q
What is the minimum lees aging for Alta Langa DOCG?
A
30 months
17
Q
Approximately when did Barolo transition into a dry wine?
A
Mid 19th century
18
Q
Which river separates the DOCGs of Gattinara and Ghemme?
A
Sesia
19
Q
Define Sori
A
A sunny, well-exposed site
20
Q
In Northern Piemonte, which river separates the Vercelli hills from the Novara hills?
A
Sesia
21
Q
Grignolino gets its name from what?
A
The high number of pips (“grignole” in Italian)
22
Q
Dogliani DOCG is based on which grape?
A
Dolcetto
23
Q
Cannubi is a cru in which DOCG?
A
Barolo DOCG
24
Q
Why is Erbaluce suitable for passito wines?
A
Its thick skin and high acidity
25
How many MGAs are there in Barolo DOCG?
181
26
How many MGAs are there in Barbaresco DOCG?
66
27
What is the most widely planted white grape in Piemonte?
Moscato Bianco
28
Boca DOC is in which winegrowing region of Piemonte?
Northern Piemonte
29
The Roero and Langhe hills of Piemonte are divided by which river?
Tanaro
30
What are the names of the three villages of Barbaresco?
Barbaresco, Neive, and Treiso
31
Who created Asti Spumante?
Carlo Gancia
32
What is the minimum percentage of Dolcetto in Diano d'Alba DOCG?
100%
33
What is the most widely planted red grape in Piemonte?
Barbera
34
What are the names of the two geologic formations in Barolo DOCG?
Tortonian and Helvetian/Serravallian
35
The Nizza DOCG is based on which grape variety?
Barbera
36
Define Bricco
A superior site on the higher part of the hil
37
Who produced the first commercial Vermouth in 1786
Carpano
38
What is the Nebbiolo-based DOC in Piemonte that borders Valle d'Aosta?
Carema DOC
39
Favorita is genetically identical to which popular grape from Sardegna?
Vermentino
40
Timorasso is grown mostly around what area of Piemonte?
The hills of Tortona
41
Define Barolo Chinato
Aromatized, fortified wine produced using Barolo wine
42
What is the largest subzone of Moscato d'Asti DOCG?
Canelli
43
Why would have Freisa wines traditionally been finished with some residual sugar?
To offset Freisa's characteristic bitterness
44
What is Nebbiolo called in Northern Piemonte?
Spanna
45
What is the principal clone of Nebbiolo?
Lampia
46
What is the minimum percentage of Nebbiolo in Ghemme DOCG?
85%
47
What DOC traditionally adopts the Topia vine training system?
Carema DOC
48
What is the minimum aging for Dogliani Superiore DOCG?
1 year
49
What is the largest region of Italy? What is the second-largest?
Sicily is largest, then Piemonte
50
Why does Pietmonte have a primary place in the modern history of Italy?
It was the center of the industrial revolution and led the unification movement, both in the 19th century
51
How many DOCs are there in Piemonte?
42 (as of 2017)
52
How many DOCGs are there in Piemonte
17 (as of 2017)
53
How many IGTs are there in Piemonte?
0
54
What are some of the markers of Piemonte's high-quality wines?
Some of the lowest yields annually, extensive documenting of sites and single vineyards, most (with Toscana) top wine awards annually
55
Why is Piemonte considered a conservative, traditional region?
Opposition to modern winemaking techniques in traditional growing areas, insignificance of international varieties
56
What is the significance of cucina Piemontese?
Means Piemontese cuisine, local wines are reliably perfect with local food
57
Who were the first people to inhabit Piemonte? Who taught them viticulture?
The Taurini and Salassi tribes, who learned viticulture from the Etruscans
58
When was Piemonte conquered by Rome?
100 BC, hundreds of years after Rome had risen to prominence in the rest of Italy
59
Who were the Lombards?
A tribe that conquered Piemonte in the 6th century CE and divided it up into duchies and counties
60
Who incorporated Piemonte into the Holy Roman Empire?
Charlemagne and the Franks
61
Why did viticulture flourish in Piemonte during the Middle Ages?
Catholic monks grew grapes and made wine
62
What happened in 1045 that affected Piemonte?
Count of Savoy Oddone married Adelaide of Susa, Marquise of Torino, bringing Piemonte under the control of the House of Savoy, later the Kingdom of Sardegna
63
Who was Prime Minister Cavour?
PM of the Kingdom of Sardegna after Napoleon's fall, led the Risorgimento
64
Where in Piemonte were viticultural and enological stations founded in 1872?
Asti and Gattinara
65
What happened to viticulture in Piemonte during Italy's industrial revolution? What was the consequence of this?
Oidum, then phylloxera and downy mildew, caused major damage to vines. leading many growers to abandon vineyards for good-paying industrial jobs
66
Where is Piemonte located? What is the capital?
"At the foot of the mountain". Apennines and Alps separate Piemonte from Liguria and France to the south, Alps form the border with France to the west and Valle d'Aosta and Switzerland to the north. Lombardia and Emilia-Romagna to the east. Piemonte is landlocked. Capitol is Torino.
67
Piemonte's topography can be loosely described as a series of rings. What are they?
Mountainous outer (except for in the east), hilly transitional, plains in the middle
68
What percentage of Piemonte is comprised of mountains?
43%
69
What is the largest lake in Piemonte?
Lake Maggiore, on the northeastern border (shared with Lombardia)
70
What expected topographical feature is missing in western Piemonte?
The intermediate Prealps separating the Alps proper from the plains
71
What percentage of Piemonte is comprised of hills?
30%
72
Where are the great majority of Piemonte's winegrowing districts located?
The "ring" of hills
73
What is significant about the aspect of Piemonte's hills?
They offer sun exposure in all directions, allowing each variety to be planted according to its ripening requirements
74
What are the important named hill clusters in Piemonte? Which is the largest?
Monferrato (largest) in Asti and Alessandria, Langhe and Roero in Cuneo, Novara and Verceli in the provinces of the same names, and Tortona (Colli Tortonesi) in Alessandria
75
What percentage of Piemonte are plains? Where are they located?
27%, in the east (corresponding to the upper Po Valley)
76
Where does the Po River rise? Where does it flow?
Rises in the Western Alps of Piemonte and centrally bisects the region flowing east, eventually emptying in the Adriatic
77
Which tributaries of the Po flow south? From where do they rise?
Ticino, Sesia, Dora Baltea, Dora Riparia, rising in the Northern and Western Alps
78
Which tributaries of the Po flow north? From where do they rise?
Tanaro and Bormida, rising in the Ligurian Apennines
79
What is the climate of Piemonte?
Continental with significant local variation
80
Why is rainfall limited in the Piemonte?
Rain shadow from the Alps and Apennines
81
What amount of Piemonte's area under vine is red?
2/3
82
What is the most widely planted grape in Piemonte?
Barbera
83
In which provinces is the majority of Barbera planted in Piemonte?
Asti and Alessandria
84
How many DOCGs are dedicated to Dolcetto in Piemonte? How many DOCs?
3 DOCGs, 4 DOCs
85
What is the most-planted white variety in Piemonte?
Moscato Bianco, second-most planted in Piemonte overall
86
70% of all plantings in Piemonte are to which grapes?
Barbera, Moscato Bianco, Dolcetto, and Nebbiolo
87
What percentage of plantings in Piemonte are to international varieties? Which is the most important?
Less than 4%, Chardonnay is the most important
88
When did Barbera rise to prominence in Piemonte, and why?
When replanting after phylloxera, because it is both productive and versatile
89
What are the typical properties of Barbera wines?
High acid even when fully ripe, deep color, bright red cherry fruit, low tannin. Traditional wines are light and simple, high-quality producers make more powerful wines with significant use of new oak for tannin and complexity
90
Where are most Dolcetto plantings in the Piemonte?
Langhe and southern Monferatto
91
Why is Dolcetto's ripening window prized in the Piemonte?
It is early-ripening and will do so even on high, cool sites, which allows the wine to be made and released earlier than Nebbiolo and Barbera, bringing in revenue while those wines are still in the cellar
92
What are the typical properties of Dolcetto wines?
Deep color, grapey and black fruit aromas, low acid, noticeable tannin. Traditionally simple and easy-drinking, some producers make more structured, full-bodied expressions
93
What traits make Nebbiolo difficult to grow?
It is early-budding, very late-ripening, highly site-sensitive (in Piemonte must be on well-exposed, south-facing slopes), and soil-sensitive (best in calcareous marls)
94
What are the typical properties of Nebbiolo wines?
Pale ruby-garnet in youth, orange with age. Aromas of cherry, rose, violet, tar, licorice, underbrush. High acid, tannin, alcohol, and extract. Ageworthy and noble
95
What is Lampia?
The principal biotype of Nebbiolo, considered the best clone because of its reliability
96
What is Michet?
A virused form of Lampia Nebbiolo
97
What is Bolla?
A lesser-quality, high-yielding biotype of Nebbiolo
98
Describe the Rosé biotype of Nebbiolo
Actually a distinct variety, lighter in color and acidity but higher in alcohol than Lampia
99
What are the typical properties of Freisa wines?
Light-colored, high in acid and tannin, aromas of strawberry and raspberry, usually lightly bitter and with some residual sugar. Can be made still, frizzante, and spumante
100
Where is most Freisa grown in the Piemonte?
Asti, Torino, and Langhe
101
What are the typical properties of Grignolino wines?
Pale red or pink, delicate floral, red berry, pepper, and herbal aromas, light-bodied, high acid and tannin, moderate alcohol
102
What are the typical properties of Brachetto wines?
Aromatic reds, usually sweet and frizzante or spumante, raspberry and strawberry aromas. Think of it as a red equivalent to Moscato Bianco
103
What are the typical properties of Ruchè wines?
Highly-perfumed reds from Castagnole with rose, red fruit, and spice aromas
104
What is the Piemontese name for Muscat Blanc a Petit Grains?
Moscato Bianco
105
What is the world's most popular sweet sparkling wine?
Asti Spumante
106
What is most Moscato Bianco grown in Piemonte used for?
Asti Spumante
107
What is the primary challenge of growing Cortese in Piemonte?
It is highly productive and requires tight yield controls to balance its high acid with sufficient body and fruit
108
What are the typical properties of Cortese wines? From where do the best examples come?
Refreshing acidity, minerality, lemon zest aromas and flavors. Best from Gavi
109
To where is Arneis native?
The Roero hills
110
Which producers saved Arneis from extinction?
Bruno Giacosa and Vietti
111
What is Nebbiolo Bianco a synonym for?
Arneis
112
What are the typical properties of Arneis wines?
Medium- to full-bodied whites, subtle but complex aromas of white flowers, stone fruit, and ripe pear
113
Where is Erbaluce grown in the Piemonte?
Caluso and the Canavese district of Northern Piemonte
114
What are the typical properties of Erbaluce wines?
Thick-skinned and very high in acid, traditionally used for complex passitos. Dry examples have floral, citrus, and apple aromas
115
Where is most Timorasso planted in the Piemonte?
The hills of Tortona in the southeastern corner of Piemonte
116
Who saved Timorasso from extinction?
Walter Massa
117
What are the typical properties of Timorasso wines?
Intensely mineral, aromas of florals and citrus, often with honey. Creamy palate despite high acidity. Ageworthy and best with some years in bottle
118
What percentage of Piemonte's total production is red?
Over 60%
119
After red wines, what makes up the majority of Piemonte's wine production?
Sparkling wines made from Moscato Bianco
120
What percentage of Piemonte's production is DOCG or DOC?
Almost 90%
121
What are the most important centers of wine production in Piemonte?
The cities of Asti and Alba
122
Who grows most of the grapes for Asti sparkling and Vermouth wines?
Independent growers who sell to large producers or cooperatives
123
Name the major sub-regions of Piemonte
Northern Piemonte, Western Piemonte / Torino Hills, Alba, and Monferrato
124
What is Spanna?
Northern Piemontese name for Nebbiolo
125
What is the primary grape of Northern Piemonte?
Nebbiolo (Spanna)
126
Name the wine districts of Northern Piemonte
Novara / Vercelli Hills and Canavese
127
Where are the Novara and Vercelli Hills? What are the prestigious appellations there?
North of the cities of Novara and Vercelli in Northern Piemonte, on the border with Lombardia. Home to Gattinara DOCG and Ghemme DOCG
128
Where is Canavese? What are the prestigious appellations there?
Around Ivrea, north of Torino, home to Erbaluce di Caluso DOCG and Carema DOC
129
Describe the soil composition of the Novara and Vercelli Hills
Retreating glaciers left a series of moraines that link the Alps with the plains. Soils are acidic and varied, with sand, red, iron-rich clay, and gravel over volcanic subsoils of igneous rock and granite
130
What separates Novara from Vercelli?
The Sesia river separates Vercelli in the west from Novara in the east
131
From west to east, name the appellations of Vercelli
Lessona DOC, Bramaterra DOC, Gattinara DOCG
132
From west to east, name the appellations of Novara
Boca DOC, Ghemme DOCG, Sizzano DOC, and Fara DOC
133
What are the catch-all appellations of Novara and Vercelli Hills?
Coste Della Sesia DOC (west of the Sesia) and Colline Novaresi (east of the Sesia)
134
Why do Nebbiolo wines from Northern Piemonte have more acidity than other expressions?
Moderating influences of Lake Maggiore and Lake Orta, and cool air descending from the Alps
135
Why is Nebbiolo traditionally blended in the Novara and Vercelli Hills?
It is difficult for Nebbiolo to fully ripen in the cool environment, so it must be softened with other varieties
136
How are most vines trained in the Novara and Vercelli Hills?
Guyot
137
Which is the best, and longest-lived, of the Northern Piemontese Nebbiolo appellations?
Gattinara DOCG
138
Describe the soils of Gattinara DOCG
Decomposed volcanic porphyritic sub-soil
139
To what aspect must vines be planted in Gattinara DOCG?
West or southwest (optimal sun exposure)
140
What is the minimum percentage of Nebbiolo in Gattinara DOCG? What are its blending partners?
90% Nebbiolo, up to 10% Vespolina and/or Uva Rara, Vespolina no more than 4%
141
What are the aging requirements for Gattinara DOCG?
35 months of aging, 24 in oak. Riservas must be aged for 47 months, at least 36 months in oak
142
How do Gattinara DOCG Nebbiolo differ from Nebbiolo from the Langhe?
Lighter color, higher acid, lower alcohol, lighter body
143
Where is Ghemme DOCG located?
Opposite Gattinara DOCG, on the eastern side of the Sesia river in Northern Piemonte
144
Where is Gattinara DOCG located?
Opposite Ghemme DOCG, on the western side of the Sesia river in Northern Piemonte
145
What are the requirements for Ghemme DOCG?
85% Nebbiolo, up to 15% Vespolina and/or Uva Rava, aged for at least 34 months, minimum 18 in oak. Riservas age for 46 months, minimum 24 in oak
146
What is the traditional blending formula for Northern Piemontese red?
Nebbiolo with some Vespolina and/or Uva Rara
147
Which minor Northern Piemontese Nebbiolo appellation can incorporate 100% Nebbiolo?
Lessona DOC
148
What distinguishes Lessona DOC's flavor profile from other Northern Piemontese expressions?
Savory and mineral character
149
What is the soil like in Lessona DOC?
Mineral-rich, acidic sands over subsoils of marine deposits
150
What are the blending requirements for Bramaterra DOC? What are the soils like there?
50-80% Nebbiolo, up to 30% Croatina, up to 20% Vespolina and/or Uva Rara. Soils are volcanic and marine sands.
151
What are the blending requirements for Boca DOC? What are the soils like there?
70-90% Nebbiolo, up to 30% Vespolina and/or Uva Rara. Soils are volcanic.
152
Describe the wines of Valli Ossolane DOC
There are three: a Nebbiolo-based red blend, a Chardonnay-based white blend, and a varietal Nebbiolo
153
Describe the wines of Colline Novaresi DOC
A catchall appellation for the eastern bank of the Sesia river in Northern Piemonte
154
Describe the wines of Coste della Sesia DOC
A catchall appellation for the western bank of the Sesia river in Northern Piemonte
155
Where is the Canavese located?
Northwestern Piemonte, on the border of Valle d'Aosta, at the base of the Alps
156
Describe the topography of Canavese
Vineyards are located in the Ivrea glacial moraine basin. The Dora Baltea river bisects the region north to south, and the Alps both block cold winds and encourage air circulation (providing wide diurnal temperature swings)
157
What is vino di montagna?
The historically important Nebbiolo-based wine from Carema DOC
158
Where is Carema DOC located, and what is significant about its location?
In northern Canavese, on the border with Valle d'Aosta; Carema DOC's climate and topography have more in common with Valle d'Aosta than with the rest of Piemonte
159
Describe the wines of Carema DOC
At least 85% Nebbiolo, aged for at least 2 years, at least 1 in oak. Riserva aged 3 years, at least 1 in oak. Fragrant and delicate, high acid, high minerality, light body
160
Where is Erbaluce di Caluso DOCG located?
Southeast of Carema DOC, in central Canavese
161
What types of wine are made in Erbaluce di Caluso DOCG?
Dry white, traditional-method sparkling, passito dessert
162
Describe the passito sweet wines of Erbaluce di Caluso DOCG
Erbaluce's high acidity ensures balanced sweet wines. Two styles are made, a complex traditional amber style with some oxidation and a modern, golden, fruit-forward style with some oak. Minimum three years aging, four for riservas
163
Describe dry white Erbaluce di Caluso DOCG
High acid, high minerality, floral (acacia and hawthorn), citrus, apple, lightly herbal. Warm vintages required for proper balance
164
What is the fallback appellation of the Canavese?
Canavese DOC
165
From north to south, name the appellations of Western Piemonte and the type of wine made there
Valsusa DOC, Pinerolese DOC, Colline Saluzzesi DOC; all mostly produce local red blends
166
Where is the Torino Hills winegrowing area located? What are the soils like there?
East of Torino, north of the Langhe, on the right bank of the Po in Piemonte. Soils are calcareous marl
167
What are the appellations of the Torino Hills, and what types of wine do they produce?
Collina Torinese DOC (varietal reds from local grapes) and Freisa di Chieri DOC (red blends from 90% Freisa made dry, sweet, frizzante, and spumante)
168
Where is the Alba sub-region located?
Southern Piemonte, in eastern Cuneo province, mostly on the right bank of the Tanaro river
169
What separates the Langhe from the Roero? What are the topographical differences between the two?
The Tanaro flows from the Western Appenines to the Po, and separates the Roero (left bank/north) from the Langhe (right bank/south). The Roero hills are low-rising and steep-sloped, the Langhe hills are higher in elevation with more gradual slopes
170
Of which winegrowing district is Alba traditionally considered a part?
The Langhe
171
Describe the climate of Alba and the topographical features affecting it
Continental, with some moderating influence from the Tanaro river, warm breezes from the Ligurian Sea, and cool breezes from the Alps (keeping the air circulating and diurnal swings wide)
172
Describe the soils of the Langhe
Compact calcareous marls (terre bianchi) and sandstone; few stones means erosion can be an issue
173
Describe the soils of Roero
Softer clay (than the Langhe), sand, and marine fossils; few stones means erosion can be an issue
174
What factors create an ideal macroclimate for viticulture in the Langhe and Roero?
Variations in soil composition, moderate continental climate, south-facing slopes
175
Describe viticulture in the Langhe and Roero
Almost universally Guyot or cordon spur-pruned systems, pruning and harvesting carried out by hand
176
What differentiates Nebbiolo from the Langhe and Roero from those of Northern Piemonte?
Milder conditions lead to more consistent ripening, resulting in wines with fuller body and higher alcohol, sometimes with less acidity
177
How many appellations are there in the Langhe and Roero?
12
178
What are the classic grapes of the Langhe and Roero?
Nebbiolo, Barbera, and Dolcetto
179
What similarities does the Langhe share with Burgundy?
Growers place high importance on village origin, single-vineyard wines, and estate bottling. Vineyards in both areas are planted on slopes divided into small parcels and owned by multiple growers. Heavy emphasis on terroir
180
How are the Langhe Hills divided, and why? Where is the line of demarcation?
Alta Langa and Bassa Langa, referencing the altitude of the hills which climb as they spread south. Monforte d'Alba is the point of separation
181
What moderates the climate of the Langhe Hills?
The Tanaro River and its accompanying air currents
182
What site-selection strategy is employed when planting vines in the Langhe Hills?
Nebbiolo planted to the best sites (in the middle of south-facing slopes), Barbera and Dolcetto to the top and bottom of the hills and on east- and west-facing aspects. Dolcetto in the highest, coolest spots
183
Which appellation is considered to deliver the highest and most powerful expression of Nebbiolo?
Barolo DOCG
184
What significance do Camillo Benso and Paolo Francesco Staglieno have to Barolo?
They led to its wines being fermented down to dryness (Benso was Count of Cavour, Staglieno his enologist)
185
Why were Barolo historically off-dry?
Most likely due to Nebbiolo's high sugar content and late harvest, coupled with stuck fermentations from early winter cold
186
Who brought Barolo to international acclaim?
Giulia Falletti, Marquise of Barolo, who made dry wines on her estate and introduced them to the Torino aristocracy, which then spread the wine throughout Europe
187
What does "re dei vini e vino dei re" mean?
"King of wines and wine of kings", refers to Barolo DOCG
188
Where is Barolo DOCG located?
In northwestern Langhe, on the right bank of the Tanaro River where it makes a 90 degree turn east. Alba is to the northeast and separates Barolo DOCG from Barbaresco DOCG
189
What is the composition of Barolo?
100% Nebbiolo from strictly delimited hills around 11 authorized towns
190
Which entire communes are allowed to produce Barolo?
3: Barolo, Castiglione Falletto, and Serralunga d'Alba
191
Which communes are partially authorized to produce Barolo?
8: Monforte d'Alba, La Morra, Novello, Verduno, Grinzane Cavour, Diano d'Alba, Cherasco, and Roddi
192
90% of Barolo DOCG production comes from which villages?
5: La Morra, Barolo, Castiglione Falletto, Monforte d'Alba, and Serralunga d'Alba
193
Name the communes authorized for Barolo DOCG
11: Barolo, Castiglione Falletto, Serralunga d'Alba, Monforte d'Alba, La Morra, Novello, Verduno, Grinzane Cavour, Diano d'Alba, Cherasco, and Roddi
194
At what elevation does the disciplinaire allow Barolo DOCG to be planted? How does this differ from actual vineyard practice?
170-540 M, but in practice, Nebbiolo is planted at the lower end of the permitted range to ensure full ripeness
195
To what formation do most Barolo soils belong?
The Tortonian
196
What is the composition of Tortonian soil? Where is it found in Barolo DOCG? How does it affect flavor profile?
Calcareous marls that are younger and more compact than neighboring Serravallian. Found in La Morra and Barolo, throughout the western half of Barolo DOCG, and in pockets in the east. Gives wines that are more perfumed, elegant, fruit-forward, and softer/earlier-drinking
197
What is the composition of Serravallian soil? Where is it found in Barolo DOCG? How does it affect flavor profile?
Sandstone, silty marl, and sand that are older, less compact, and less fertile than neighboring Tortonian. Found in Monforte d'Alba, Serralunga d'Alba, and part of Castiglione Falletto. Gives wines that have more power, depth, body, and structure, and are very long-lived
198
What was the traditional role of the commercianti in Barolo DOCG?
Commercianti were merchants who blended wines from different vineyards and communes t maintain a consistent style with minimal vintage variation
199
When did estate bottling become widespread in Barolo DOCG?
The 1960s/1970s
200
What was the effect of estate bottling becoming popular in Barolo DOCG?
Led to more single-vineyard wines and, consequently, the rise of Barolo crus
201
What is the traditional identifier of superior Barolo sites?
The sites where the snow melts first
202
How many MGAs are there for Barolo DOCG? How many are communal?
181 MGAs, 11 are communal
203
Name the most widely-known Barolo DOCG MGAs
Brunate, Bussia, Cannubi, Cerequio, Francia, Ginestra, Monprivato, Rocche dell'Annunziata, Rocche di Castiglione, Sarmass, Vigna Rionda, Villero
204
What techniques are the hallmarks of traditional Barolo production? Why were they employed?
Macerations of 1-2 months and extended aging (4+ years) in Slovenian oak or chestnut botte. Long macerations for structure and longevity, wood aging to soften tannin
205
Who were the Barolo boys?
Up-and-coming Barolo producers in the early 1980s who strongly believed in producing more modern, approachable wines
206
What are the hallmarks of the 'modern' Barolo style?
Softer tannin, more concentration, noticeable oak. Fruit-driven and approachable on release
207
What are the hallmarks of present-day Barolo production?
Both traditional and modern techniques used to emphasize the varietal character of Nebbiolo while softening its acid and tannin structures
208
What are the aging requirements for Barolo DOCG?
Minimum 38 months, 18 in oak. Riservas 62 months, 18 in oak
209
Who founded the first cooperative in Barbaresco? When?
Domizio Cavazza in 1894
210
Who is credited with bringing Barbaresco to international acclaim?
Angelo Gaja
211
Where is Barbaresco DOCG located?
On the right bank of the Tanaro River, east and northeast of Alba, around the communes of Barbaresco, Neive, Treiso, and a section of San Rocco Seno d'Elvio
212
Which commune accounts for the majority of Barbaresco DOCG production?
Barbaresco
213
How are Nebbiolo vines planted in Barbaresco? How does this compare to Barolo?
In the middle of south-facing slopes (lower than in Barolo)
214
Describe the soils of Barbaresco
Mostly Tortonian (calcareous marls) with alternating layers of sand
215
What effect does Barbaresco DOCG's proximity to the Tanaro have on its wines?
Barbaresco is closer to the river than Barolo, making the area slightly warmer and the grapes slightly earlier-ripening
216
Why is there less flavor variation between Barbaresco sites than those in Barolo?
The soils are homogenous in Barbaresco and varied in Barolo
217
What are the aging requirements of Barbaresco DOCG?
26 months, 9 in oak. Riservas must be aged 50 months, 9 in oak.
218
On paper, how does the style of Barbaresco differ from that of Barolo?
Less aging and lower final alcohol
219
How many MGAs are authorized for Barbaresco DOCG?
66 (as of 2017)
220
Name some of the most important MGAs in Barbaresco DOCG
Asili, Basarin, Gallina, Martinenga, Montefico, Montestefano, Ovello, Pajore, Pora, and Rabaja
221
How did the production and aging routine of Barbaresco change in the 1970s?
Shorter macerations and aging times in new, small French oak barrels
222
When did Barolo and Barbaresco become DOCs?
1966
223
When were Barolo and Barbaresco elevated to DOCGs?
1980
224
How much more area under vine is there in Barolo than Barbaresco?
Three times
225
How much more wine is produced in Barolo than in Barbaresco?
Three times
226
What area does Nebbiolo d'Alba DOC cover?
30 communes on both banks of the Tanaro, including Roero, Alba, and the areas between Barolo and Barbaresco. Barolo and Barbaresco proper are excluded
227
If Barolo or Barbaresco producers wish to declassify their Nebbiolo-based wines, what appellation must they use?
Langhe Nebbiolo DOC
228
What style of wine is made in Alba DOC?
A blend of 70-85% Nebbiolo and 15-30% Barbera
229
Which appellation area in Piemonte produces the most Dolcetto?
Dolcetto d'Alba DOC
230
Where is Dogliani DOCG located? What are the soils like there?
South of Barolo in southwestern Langhe. The Tanaro River runs through the entire length of the appellation south to north, and vineyards are planted on both banks. The soils are layers of sandstone and marl
231
Prior to 2011, what was the name of Dogliani DOCG?
Dolcetto di Dogliani DOCG
232
What is Dogliani DOCG superiore?
Dogliani DOCG with lower yields, higher potential alcohol, and aged for one year
233
Where is Diano d'Alba DOCG? What are the soils like there?
Hilltop village south of Alba and east of Barolo. The soils are white sandstone
234
How many MGAs are there in Diano d'Alba DOCG?
76
235
Where is Dolcetto d'Alba located?
On the right bank of the Tanaro River and encompasses the entire Lower Langhe, including Barolo, Barbaresco, and the land between them
236
Describe the soils of Dolcetto d'Alba DOC
Layers of calcareous marl, sandstone, and sand
237
Where is Barbera d'Alba DOC located?
Both sides of the Tanaro River. On the right bank, it is the entire Lower Langhe; on the left, it covers the Roero Hills
238
What boundary does Dogliani DOCG mark?
The line between the Upper and Lower Langhe
239
Describe the soils of Barbera d'Alba DOC and how planting sites are selected
Calcareous marls, sandstone, and sand (remember the DOC covers Barolo and Barbaresco so same soils). Barbera is usually planted on sites where Nebbiolo is not capable of ripening
240
What are the disciplinaire requirements of Barbera d'Alba DOC?
85% Barbera, up to 15% Nebbiolo (though usually 100% Barbera). Superiore must be aged 12 months before release, minimum 4 in oak
241
What are the differences between Barbera d'Alba DOC from the left and right banks of the Tanaro?
Left bank more approachable and refined, right bank bigger, richer, more structured, and more likely to see oak
242
What does it mean for Barbera d'Alba to baroleggia?
The Barbera takes on some of the flavors of Barolo (earth, leather, tobacco) with bottle age
243
What is the catch-all appellation of the Langhe? What area does it cover?
Langhe DOC, covering Langhe, Roero, and 90 communes in Cuneo
244
Why was Langhe DOC introduced?
To allow for the blending of quality grapes across different areas of Langhe and Roero, and to permit native and international grapes not otherwise allowed
245
Prior to the introduction of Langhe DOC, what would wines have to be declassified down to?
Vino da Tavola (no IGT in Piemonte)
246
What is the minimum percentage of the named grape for varietal Langhe DOC?
85%
247
What do Barolo and Barbaresco producers use Langhe Nebbiolo DOC for?
Releasing younger, more approachable Nebbiolo expressions without lengthy aging requirements, or producing wines with less restrictive rules
248
What are blends called under Langhe DOC?
Rosso, bianco, rosato, pasito
249
What is the subzone of Langhe DOC? What type of wine is produced there?
Nascetta del Comune di Novello, made from Nascetta. Dry or sweet pasito, with refreshing structure, aromatic herbs, citrus, tropical fruit, honey and balsamic with age
250
Describe the wines of Verduno DOC
Small appellation focused on the local Pelaverga Piccolo. Pale ruby, fresh acidity, floral and fruit, green and white pepper
251
What area is covered by Alta Langa DOCG?
Almost all of the Langhe, plus parts of Asti and Alessandria
252
What are the production specifications for Alta Langa DOCG?
Traditional method sparkling made from 90-100% Pinot Nero and/or Chardonnay (typically PN). Bianco and rosato allowed. 30 months aging on lees, 36 months for riservas, must be vintage-dated
253
Where are the Roero Hills located? What is the most important town there?
North of Alba, on the left bank of the Tanaro, between Carmagnola to the west and Asti to the east, opposite from Barolo and Barbaresco. Canale is the most important town.
254
How do the Roero Hills differ from those of the Langhe? What is their most important topographical feature? What effect does this have on harvest?
They are lower in altitude but have a steeper grade (vineyard work must be done by hand). Rocky cliffs called rocche cut along the hills southwest to northeast and mark the boundary between alluvial soils to the west and sandy soils to the east-central (where the vineyards are planted)
255
Describe the soils of the Roero Hills
Marine origin, composed of sand, sandstone, and marl. Poor in organic matter, rich in minerals
256
What effect does high sand content have on an overall soil mix?
High sand content makes the overall soil light, loose, soft, and permeable
257
What is significant about the annual rainfall of the Roero Hills?
It is one of the lowest in southern Piemonte, and what rain does fall quickly drains in the sandy soil, necessitating wells and irrigation
258
What are the main varieties grown in the Roero Hills?
Arneis, Nebbiolo, Barbera, and Favorita
259
Which Langhe appellations include the Roero Hills?
Barbera d'Alba DOC, Nebbiolo d'Alba DOC, Langhe DOC, and Alba DOC
260
What appellation is used for Favorita in the Roero Hills?
Langhe Favorita DOC
261
What appellation is used for most Nebbiolo grown in the Roero Hills?
Roero DOCG
262
What appellation is used for most Arneis grown in the Roero Hills?
Roero Arneis DOCG
263
How many MGAs are there in Roero DOCG? How many of them are communal?
153 MGAs, 18 are communal
264
Where in Roero DOCG does Nebbiolo perform well?
On south-facing, sunny sites with poor, sandy soils
265
What is the traditional blending partner of Nebbiolo in Roero DOCG? Is it still permissible?
Arneis, but no longer allowed
266
How does Nebbiolo production in Roero DOCG differ from that of the Langhe? How do the resulting wines differ from those of the Langhe?
Short macerations and short periods of aging in small oak barrels. No traditionalist vs modern conflict as in Barolo and Barbaresco. Lighter, softer, less tannic, more perfumed
267
What are the production specifications for Roero DOCG?
Minimum 95% Nebbiolo, aged for at least 20 months, at least 6 in oak. Riservas aged minimum 32 months, at least 6 in oak
268
What are the production specifications for Roero Arneis DOCG?
Dry white from minimum 95% Arneis. Riservas must be aged for at least 16 months, with no oak requirement (oak is uncommon). Spumante is also permitted
269
Where is Monferrato located, and how is it divided?
Southeastern Piemonte within Asti and Alessandria. Divided into 3 main areas: Basso Monferrato, Monferrato Astigiano, and Alto Monferrato
270
Where is Basso Monferrato located?
Northeastern Monferrato, covering the low hills sloping toward the Po plain to the north
271
Where is Monferrato Astigiano located?
Western Monferrato, north and south of Asti, bisected by the Tanaro
272
Where is Alto Monferrato located?
Southeastern Monferrato, where the hills increase in elevation and meet the Ligurian Apennines
273
Monferrato is considered the traditional home of which Piemontese grapes?
Barbera, Grignolino, and Cortese
274
What is the climate of Monferrato?
Continental
275
Name the different soil types found in Monferrato
Terre Bianche, Sabbie Astiane, and Terre Rosse
276
What is Terre Bianche? Where is it found?
Piemontese soil type composed of alternating layers of sand, sandstone, and white calcareous marl. Shallow, rich in marine fossils, and high in calcium carbonate. Found south of Asti and in Monferrato
277
What is Sabbie Astiane? Where is it found?
Sandy soils found along both banks of the Tanaro in central Monferrato Astigiano. Poor water retention often leads to stress on the vines
278
What is Terre Rosse? Where is it found?
Deep clay soils rich in iron and magnesium found in Alto Monferrato
279
What are infernotti?
Underground cellars dug into the marly-sandstone soils of Monferrato prized for high humidity and consistently cool temperatures. Used to age the best bottles.
280
What is the highest-volume red appellation in Piemonte?
Barbera d'Astia DOCG
281
Describe the soils of Barbera d'Asti DOCG
Calcareous marls and sabbie astiane north of Asti, terre bianche south of Asti
282
How are vines trained in Monferrato?
Guyot or cordon
283
What is significant about how Barbera is planted in Monferrato vs the Langhe?
Barbera is given the best vineyard sites in Monferrato, whereas in Langhe the best sites always go to Nebbiolo
284
What are the production specifications for Barbera d'Asti DOCG?
Minimum 90% Barbera, aged at least 4 months. Superiore requires special fruit selection, at least 14 months aging, at least 6 months in oak
285
What style of Babera is made in Barbera d'Asti DOCG?
Most is simple table winemade in stainless. More ambitious expressions are matured large neutral botte
286
What winemaking decision is an indicator of "modern" Barbera?
Use of new small barrels for tannin, richer texture, and oak flavor
287
How does Barbera d'Asti DOCG compare to Barbera d'Alba DOC?
Barbera d'Asti is typically fruitier, more mineral, and higher in acid
288
What are the stylistic hallmarks of Barbera d'Asti Superiore DOCG, and how does this differ from regular Barbera d'Asti?
Riper fruit, lower yields, use of oak (particularly new barrique), resulting in wine with more depth, texture, and complexity compared to simple table Barbera d'Asti
289
Name the subzones of Barbera d'Asti DOCG and what differentiates them from the rest of the appellation
Tinella and Colli Astiani, both of which require lower yields, higher minimum potential alcohol, and longer aging
290
Prior to 2014, what was Nizza DOCG?
A subzone of Barbera d'Asti Superiore DOCG
291
What is the zone of production for Nizza DOCG, and what is special about it?
18 villages around the town of Nizza Monferrato that possess a warmer meso-climate than the rest of Barbera d'Asti DOCG, traditionally delivering the ripest fruit each harvest
292
What are the production specifications for Nizza DOCG?
100% Barbera aged for a minimum of 18 months, at least 6 in oak. Riservas must be aged for 30 months, at least 12 in oak
293
Where is Ruche di Castagnole Monferrato DOCG?
7 hilltop towns around Castagnole Monferrato, northeast of Asti, on the left bank of the Tanaro. Soils transition from calcareous marl to sabbie astiane
294
What are the production specifications for Ruche di Castagnole Monferrato? What is its flavor profile?
90% Ruche, max 10% Barbera or Brachetto. Distinctive rose and red berry aromas, noticeable tannin, bitter finish
295
Where is Brachetto d'Acqui DOCG located? What are the soils like there?
Hills northwest of Acqui Terme, between the Belbo and Bormida rivers. Soils are compact, white calcareous marls, with some areas of sand and sandstone
296
What is the typical flavor profile of Brachetto d'Acqui DOCG?
Sweet, aromatic, and typically sparkling red. Ruby color, intense strawberry and raspberry, some florals, light body, low alcohol
297
What are the production specifications for Brachetto d'Acqui DOCG?
Still/frizzante, spumante, or passito red made from at least 97% Brachetto. Best expressions are frizzante, most production is (Martinotti method) spumante
298
Where is Freisa d'Asti DOC located?
Covers the entire province of Asti, including Monferrato Astigiano
299
What are the production specifications for Freisa d'Asti DOC?
Still, still superiore (minimum 1 year aging), frizante, and spumante are made. All can be dry or off-dry to medium-sweet. Off-dry frizzante is the traditional style
300
Where is Grignolino d'Asti DOC located?
Hills north and south of Asti
301
What role does Grignolino play in Monferrato relative to the other grapes grown there?
Like Dolcetto in the Langhe, Grignolino is made for early, mostly local consumption
302
What are the production specifications for Grignolino d'Asti DOC?
90% Grignolinio, up to 10% Freisa
303
What is the flavor profile of Grignolino d'Asti DOC?
Pale (almost rose) color, floral, strawberry, raspberry aromas, dry, light body, high acid, moderate alcohol, some tannin, bitter finish
304
Name the Dolcetto appellations in the Asti winegrowing district
1, Dolcetto d'Asti DOC
305
What style of wine is made in Malvasia di Casorzo d'Asti DOC?
Sweet red made from Malvasia Nera di Casorzo, with up to 10% Freisa, Grignolino, and/or Barbera
306
What are the categories of Asti DOCG?
Asti DOCG (previously Asti Spumante), fully-sparkling sweet white, and Moscato d'Asti DOCG, frizzante sweet white. Both made from Moscato Bianco
307
What is the average annual production of Asti DOCG?
80 million bottles
308
Where is Asti DOCG located?
South and southeast of Asti on the right bank of the Tanaro, covering more than 50 villages within Asti, Cuneo, and Alessandria
309
What town is the major production center for Asti DOCG?
Canelli
310
What are the soils like in Asti DOCG?
Terre bianchi
311
How are the vines planted in Asti DOCG?
Hillside plantings, Guyot-trained, hand-harvested
312
The introduction of which production method greatly affected Asti DOCG? Why?
Martinotti (tank method). Less labor-intensive, less expensive, preserves Moscato aromatics
313
What is the typical flavor profile of Asti DOCG?
Dense mousse, floral and fruity aromas, sweet, moderate acidity, low alcohol
314
What is Geraniol?
An aromatic compound of the Moscato grape that is pleasant when young but sharp with age; it is the reason Asti DOCG should not be aged
315
Is there a vintage date on Asti DOCG?
Not required but, due to high turns, most Asti DOCG in the market is current
316
What is the Asti method?
Variation on the Martinotti (tank) sparkling method, used in Asti DOCG, in which no still, dry base wine is produced and instead a single fermentation is started and stopped throughout the process
317
Is the traditional method permissible for Asti DOCG?
Yes
318
If Asti DOCG is produced using the traditional method, how long must it be aged?
9 months on the lees
319
Who makes the great majority of Asti DOCG?
Large producers and cooperatives
320
What is Asti secco?
New (2017) style of Asti DOCG allowed to produce drier wines (up to Extra Dry)
321
Describe the production of Moscato d'Asti DOCG
Frizzante sweet wine made from the best, ripest grapes. Single fermentation stopped by chilling the must at 5-5.5% ABV. Sealed under cork with some dissolved CO2 and vintage-dated
322
How does the flavor profile of Moscato d'Asti DOCG compare with regular Asti DOCG?
Moscato d'Asti is frizzante (max 2.5 atmospheres) instead of sparkling, with more pronounced aromas and lower alcohol
323
Who makes the great majority of Moscato d'Asti DOCG?
Small, artisanal producers
324
What are the subzones of Moscato d'Asti DOCG? Where are they located?
Canelli (largest, between Alba and Canelli), Santa Vittoria d'Alba (smallest, within Vittoria d'Alba), and Strevi (Strevi and Acqui Terme)
325
What is Moscato d'Asti Vendemmia Tardiva DOCG?
Moscato d'Asti from late-harvest, partially-dried fruit, aged for at least 1 year
326
What is the difference between Barbera del Monferrato Superiore DOCG and Barbera del Monferrato DOC?
DOCG is for the still red superiore, DOC for the basic still red and frizzante versions
327
Where are Barbera del Monferrato Superiore DOCG and Barbera del Monferrato DOC located?
Same production zone, covering all of Asti and much of Alessandria
328
Where is most Barbera del Monferrato grown?
Alto and Basso Monferrato, though the production zone is much larger
329
How is most Barbera planted in Monferrato? What are the soils like there?
Barbera is planted in the best sites and is usually Guyot-trained. Soils are varied, including calcareous marls, sandstone, sand, and clay
330
What are the production requirements of Barbera del Monferrato Superiore DOCG and Barbera del Monferrato DOC?
Both minimum 85% Barbera, up to 15% Freisa, Grignolino, and/or Dolcetto. Superiore requires lower yields, higher minimum alcohol, and higher extract than the DOC, aged minimum 14 months, at least 6 in oak. DOC has no minimum aging.
331
What are Barbera's traditional blending partners in Monferrato?
Freisa in Baso Monferrato and Dolcetto in Alto Monferrato
332
What distinguishes the flavor profile of Barbera del Monferrato DOCG from Barbera del Monferrato DOC?
DOCG is more structured, softer tannins from oak influence, and more complex aromatics
333
What is the difference between Ovada Superiore DOCG and Ovada DOC?
DOCG is for the superiore wine, DOC for the basic
334
Where are Ovada Superiore DOCG and Ovada DOC located?
Same production zone around Ovada, in southeast Piemonte, just west of (and partially overlapping) Gavi DOCG
335
How is most Dolcetto planted in Ovada Superiore DOCG and Ovada DOC? What are the soils like there?
Planted on slopes, Guyot-trained. Soils are alternating layers of sand, clay, calcareous marl, and limestone
336
What are the production specifications for Ovada Superiore DOCG?
100% Dolcetto, aged for a minimum of one year. Single vineyard wines require 20 months aging, riservas require 2 years aging
337
What are the production specifications for Ovada DOC?
97% Dolcetto, up to 3% other red varieties, no aging requirement
338
Where is Gavi DOCG located?
Around the town of Gavi, southeastern Alto Monferrato, in the province of Alessandria
339
When did Cortese become the primary grape of Gavi?
After phylloxera
340
What was responsible for the poor quality Gavi of the 1980s?
Overcropping / high yields
341
What are the soils like in Gavi DOCG?
Terre bianchi and terre rosse
342
What are the production specifications for GaviDOCG?
100% Cortese. Riservas must be single vineyard and aged at least 1 year, minimum 6 months in bottle. Frizzante and spumante permitted. Spumante riservas must be traditional method and single vineyard. MCR obtained from Cortese is permitted in bad vintages
343
What is the typical flavor profile of Gavi DOCG?
Citrus, almond, and mineral nose. Fresh acidity. Most are unoaked.
344
How many MGAs are there in Gavi? With what do they correspond?
18; 11 communes and 7 hamlets
345
How are Gavi DOCG from an MGA labelled?
Gavi DOCG del Commune di (MGA)
346
Where is Colli Tortonesi DOC located?
Southeast corner of Piemonte, bordering Lombardia and Emilia-Romagna to the east and Liguria to the south, between Alto Monferrato and Oltrepo Pavese
347
What are the dominant varietals of Colli Tortonesi DOC?
Barbera, Dolcetto, Cortese, and the native Timorasso
348
What are the subzones of Colli Tortonesi DOC?
Monleale and Terre di Libarna
349
What are the production specifications for Colli Tortonesi DOC Monleale?
Barbera-based reds aged a minimum of 20 months, minimum 6 in oak
350
What are the production specifications for Colli Tortonesi DOC Terre di Libarna?
95-100% Timorasso, made still or spumante, as well as a riserva version
351
What is Derthona?
The local name for Timorasso in Colli Tortonesi DOC
352
What are the production specifications for Grignolino del Monferrato Casalese DOC?
Minimum 90% Grignolino, up to 10% Freisa
353
What is the broad catchall appellation of the Piemonte?
Piemonte DOC
354
What is Vigneti di Montagna in Piemonte DOC?
Special designation for wines grown in high-elevation, terraced vineyards with a minimum 30% gradient
