Piemonte Flashcards

1
Q

What are the most well known MGAs in Barolo (up to 12)?

A
  1. Brunate
  2. Bussia
  3. Cannubi
  4. Cerequio
  5. Francia
  6. Ginestra
  7. Monpirvato
  8. Rocce dell’Annunziata
  9. Rocce di Castiglione
  10. Sarnassa
  11. Vigna Rionda
  12. Villero
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2
Q

How many MGAs originally recognized as cru sites (sori) in Diano ‘dAlba as Italy’s first attempt to acknowlege sites of superor quality?

A

76 MGAs that each site can be included on the label

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3
Q

The only minor Nebbiolo-based appellation that can have up to 100% Nebbiolo with required minimum of 85%.

A

Lessona DOC(!)

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4
Q

True or False: Piemonte is broadly considered as having Mediterranean climate

A

False

(it is continental)

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5
Q

True of False:

Ghemme DOCG is lcoated on the east bank of the Sesia River.

A

True

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6
Q

What are typical characteristics of Asti (spumante)? (up to seven)

A
  1. Pale in color
  2. Dense mousse composed of tiny bubbles
  3. Pronounced floral and fruity aromas
  4. Sweet moderate in acidity and alcohol (7%)
  5. Sealed with mushroom cork
  6. Should be consumed young
  7. Vintage year is not required on the label
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7
Q

Two white grapes earned reputation by gaining DOCG status in their own specific area in Piemonte

A

1. Arneis

2. Erbaluce

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8
Q

How many MGAs (additional geographic designations) in Gavi?

A

18 (11 communes + 7 hamlets)

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9
Q

Name seven prominent appellations within the Novara and Vercelli District

A
  1. Gattinara
  2. Bramaterra
  3. Lessona
  4. Ghemme
  5. Boca
  6. Sizzano
  7. Fara
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10
Q

What year Barolo and Barbersco made DOC and what year to DOCG?

A

DOC: 1966

DOCG: 1980

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11
Q

Native grape in and around Caluso in the Canavese district of northern Piemonte with its own appellation.

Thick skin and very high level of acid levels make this grape suitable and traditionally passito wine

Now dry style is also attracting attention

A

Erbaluce (!)

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12
Q

What is the minimum Nebbiolo percentage for Barbaresco?

A

100%

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13
Q

What is the requirements of the fruits and ageing for Alta Langa DOCG metodo classico sparkling wine including Riserv ?

A

90-100% Pinot Nero and/or Chardonnay

Bianco or Rosato

Vintage dated

Minimum of 30 months on lees

Riserava: Minimum of 36 months

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14
Q

Which producers started production of Arneis in Roero in 1970s (4) for the wine to attract widespread attention?

A
  1. Bruno Giacosa
  2. Vietti
  3. Negro
  4. Ceretto
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15
Q

What two rirvers flow through the hills of Acqui Terme where Brachetto d’Acqui wine is produced?

A
  1. Belbo River
  2. Bormida River
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16
Q

What is the minimum Barbera percentage and ageing for Barbera d’Asti and superiore?

A

90%

Minimum of 4 months

Superiore: 14 months with minimum of 6 months in oak

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17
Q

What percentage of Dolcetto is in Dolcetto d’Alba DOC?

A

100%

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18
Q

The appellation considered to deliver the highest and most powerful expression of the Nebbiolo grape.

A

Barolo DOCG (!)

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19
Q

What are three classic grapes in Alba?

A
  1. Nebbiolo
  2. Barbera
  3. Dolcetto
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20
Q

What is typical gradient (slope angle) and elevation of Asti DOCG?

A

30-50% gradient

650 - 1,600 ft/ 200 -500 m

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21
Q

The hills of Monferrato can be divided into three types geologically. Name the three.

A
  1. Terre Bianceh (literally white lands)
  2. Sabbie Astiane (Asti sands)
  3. Terre Rosse (red lands)
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22
Q

One of Piemonte’s principal white grapes.

Performs especially well around the town of Gavi

Characterized by acidity, minerality and a striking lemon zest.

A

Cortese (!)

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23
Q

True or False:

The average vineyard holding in Piemonte is small.

A

True

About 2.5-5 ac / 1-2 ha

Most growers sell to cooperatives especially for Asti sparkling wines and vermouth

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24
Q

What parallel can be made with Langhe to Burgundy (up to five)?

A
  1. Importance pladed on village origin
  2. Single vineyard wines
  3. Estate bottling
  4. Small parcels of land on slopes with mulitple owners
  5. Tremendous diversity of terroir
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25
Q

Name appellations that include Roero hills (4)

A
  1. Barbera d’Alba DOC
  2. Nebbiollo d’Alba DOC
  3. Langhe DOC
  4. Alba DOC
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26
Q

Barbera wine characteristics (3)

A
  1. High acidity
  2. Low tannin
  3. Bright red cherry fruit
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27
Q

Grape variety of Caluso DOCG and the promient style

A

Erbaluce

Passito style

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28
Q

One of the smaller Dolcetto appelations in Piemonte and the only Dolcetto appellation in the Asti wine growing area.

A

Dolcetto d’Asti DOC

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29
Q

Who was one of the leading figures of the Italian unification and helped advance Barolo (from sweet to dry wine)?

A

Camillo Benso, Count of Cavour (!)

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30
Q

What does “Piemonte” mean?

A

“At the foot of the mountain”

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31
Q

What is broad regional DOC covering the entire Piemontese winegrowing area to give a home to all the vineyards falling ouside of the existing DOC and DOCG zones of production?

A

Piemonte DOC

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32
Q

is the great majority of the wines produced in Piemonte Single Varietal or Blends?

A

Single varietal

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33
Q

While Barbera d’Asti and Barbera del Monferrato share most of the same territory, what does Barbera del Monferrato differ from Barbera d’Asti geogrpahically?

A

The majority of Barbear del Monferrato is grown in the province of Alessandria.

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34
Q

Number of IGT in Piemonte

A

None

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35
Q

What is the minimum ageing requirement for Ghemme DOCG wine and Riserva

A
  • 34 months of which at least 18 months in oak
  • Riserva: 46 months in total with a minimum of 24 months in oak
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36
Q

Which Gavi commune makes more wine than any of the others i.e. which MGA produces most Gavi wine?

A

Gavi

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37
Q

True or False:

Around 20% of wine in Piemonte comes from the southern and eastern part.

A

False

More than 80%

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38
Q

What is minimum ageing requirement of Nebbiolo d’Alba DOC and for superiore?

A

At least one year

Superiore: 18 months with at least 6 months in oak

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39
Q

A variety that is considered by many to be Italy’s most noble red grape and one of the oldest

A

Nebbiolo

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40
Q

Which appellation produces Dolcetto wine considered to be the most prestigeous?

A

Dogliani DOCG

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41
Q

True or False:

Roero is one of the most arid sections of southern Piemonte.

A

True:

The western Alps and the Ligurian Apennines block most of the rain.

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42
Q

A widely planted white grape, finds best expression in Gavi DOCG

A

Cortese

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43
Q

What is the ininimum percentage of Grignolino grape variety in Grignolino del Monferrato Casalese DOC(!)?

A

90%

up to 10% Freisa as legal blending partner

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44
Q

Appearence, aromas, flavors and attributes of Nebbiolo

A
  1. Pale, ruby garnet in color, turns orage with bottle age

2. Intense aroms of red cherry, rose, violet, tar, licorice and underbrush

3. High levels of acid, tannin, alcohol and extract

4. Longevity

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45
Q

What is the minimum percentage of Grignolino in Grignole d’Ast wine?

A

90% Grignolino

With up to 10% Freisa as a blending partner

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46
Q

What appellation represents the best and long lived expression of Nebbiolo from northern Piemonte?

A

Gattinara DOCG (!)

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47
Q

What percentage of Dolcetto is in Dolcetto d’Asti DOC?

A

100%

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48
Q

What is the percentage of Dolcetto in Dogliani DOCG wine?

A

100%

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49
Q

What areas does Dolcetto d’Alba covers?

A

On the right bank of the Tanaro River, encompassing the entire Lower Langhe, including Barolo and Barbersco and the land between them.

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50
Q

Name the largest network/cluster of hills found in Asti and Alessandria

A

Monferrato

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51
Q

A broad catch all appellation that covers the entire sub-region including the districts of Langhe and Roero as well as more than 90 communes within the province of Cuneo.

A

Langhe DOC (!)

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52
Q

What are two sub-zones of Colli Tortonesi DOC?

A
  1. Monleale - Barbera based sub zone occupies northern half of the appellaiton
  2. Terre di Libarna - wine made from 95-100% Timorasso in the southern half of the appellation. Aslo Barbera based blend and Tiromorasso based white blend
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53
Q

What is a dry verision of Asti Spumante called?

A

Asti Secco

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54
Q

An Italian enologist and a former military general, who helped create a dry styled Barolo in the 1830-40s.

A

Paolo Franceso Staglino

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55
Q

What is Pianura Padana

A

The Po Valley

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56
Q

What biotype is considered to be the principal biotype of Nebbiolo and widely planted?

A

Lampia (high quality clone and very reliable)

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57
Q

Grape considered to be red equivalent to Moscato Bianco

The aromatic character finds its best expression in sweet red fizzy and sparkling wines.

A

Brachetto (!)

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58
Q

A specific appellation for metodo classico (traditional method) sparkling wines made in southern Piemonte.

A

Alta Langa DOCG (!)

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59
Q

What is “rocche” in Roero Hills?

A
  • Precipitious rocky cliffs running southwest to northeast
  • La rocche separates the alluvial soils of the western plain from the sandier soils in the east central hills where the vineyards are planted
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60
Q

Name the classic area for Grignolino proudction in Monferrato.

A

Grginolino del Monferrato Caselse DOC (!)

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61
Q

What is known in Monferrato as “infernotti (infernot)”?

A

Underground cellars dug in the marly-sandstone soils.

Traditionally used to store the best bottles.

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62
Q

What is the style of Brachetto d’Acqui wine?

A

Sweet aromatic typically sparkling red wine by Martinotti method (tank).

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63
Q

What is the restriction placed on Barbera d’Asti vineyards in Monferrato?

A
  1. Can be only planted on hillsides
  2. Altitude not exceed 2000 ft/650 m
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64
Q

What is the minimum percentage of Nebbiolo in Gattinara wine

A

90%

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65
Q

What is the percentage range of Nebbiolo in Boca DOC wine?

A
  • Minimum 70%
  • Up to 90% Nebbiolo
  • Rest: Vespolina / Uva Rara
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66
Q

Whiat is the minimum percentage of Arneis in Roero Arneis DOCG?

A

95%

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67
Q

Which region in Piemonte was considered to be the most efficient wine sub region which received renown in the Middle age.

A

Monferrato

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68
Q

Aside from Nebbiolo, what other excellent grape (wine) productions Langhe is well known for (3 - two reds, one white)?

A
  1. Barbera
  2. Dolcetto
  3. Moscato Bianco
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69
Q

What is “Risorgimento”?

A

The unification movment started by the Kingdom of Sardegna Prime Minister Cavour which eventally led to the Kingdom of Italy in 1861.

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70
Q

How much acrage is covered by Asti DOCG?

A

25,00 ac / 10,000 ha

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71
Q

Name the five most well known towns and considered the most significant for producing Barolo.

A
  1. La Morra
  2. Barolo
  3. Castiglione Falletto
  4. Monforte d’Alba
  5. Serralunga d’Alba
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72
Q

Name one traditional and one modern training systems in the Navara and Vercelli sub region

A
  • Traditional: Pergola
  • Modern: Guyot
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73
Q

What is a commonly held brief of the word “Langhe” refers to?

A

“Tongues” (of land)

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74
Q

Ancient rare high quality grape from the hills of Torrona in the southwestern corner of Piemonte

Today, considered some of the most distintive white grape in Piemonte

Producer Walter Massa put the grape and the wine back on the map after decline due to phylloxera

High in acid, intensely mineral, ages well.

A

Timorasso (!)

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75
Q

State four major sub-regions in Piemonte

A
  1. Northern Piemonte (provinces of Novara, Vercelli, Biella mostly for Nebbiolo and Erbaluce)
  2. Western Piemonte and Torino Hills (the smallest and least productive sub-region at the foothills of Alps as well as the hills to the east of Torino)
  3. Alba (Includes the hills of Langhe and Roero, flank the banks of Tanrao River. Traditional home of Nebbiolo)
  4. Monferttato (In the provincres of Ast and Alessandra. South of the Po River. Traditional home of Barbera and Moscato Bianco)
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76
Q

Name the tributaries flow into the Po River (5)

A
  1. Ticino (North/West Alps)

2. Sesia (North/West Alps)

3. Dora Baltea (North/West Alps)

4. Tanaro (from Liguria Apennines)

5. Bormida (from Ligurin Apennines)

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77
Q

Along with Count of Cavour, Camillo Benso, who helped advance Barolo wine as the last Marquise of Barolo?

A

Guilia Falleti (!)

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78
Q

Which three communes and a hamlet surround hillside where Barabaresco wine is produced from?

A
  1. Barbaresco
  2. Neive
  3. Treiso
  4. A hamlet of San Rocco Seno d’Elvio
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79
Q

What is the grape varitety compostion of Barbera d’Alba DOC?

A

Minimum 85% Barbera (often 100%)

Up to 15% Nebbiolo

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80
Q

What is the main difference between Barbera d’Asti DOCG and Nizza DOCG as to the percentage of Barbera required and ageing requirments for the wine and Riserva.

A

Nizza DOCG

Must be 100% Barbera

Minimum 18 months with six months minimum in oak

Riserva: 30 months minimum with 12 minimum in oak

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81
Q

Principal grape variety of Carema DOC and miniumim percentage required.

A

Nebbiolo

85%

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82
Q

An appellation, previously sub-zone of Barbera d’Asti Superiore DOCG.

Considered an historic area for the production of Barbera.

A

Nizza DOCG

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83
Q

Who (body of adiministration) did move the capital to Torino that transformed Piemonte’s importance?

A

The House of Savoy

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84
Q

What are three main areas of Monferrato?

A
  1. Basso Monferrato (Lower Monferrato) also known as Monferrato Casalese
  2. Monferrato Astigiano
  3. Alto Monferrato (High Monferrato)
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85
Q

What is the grape used for Asti (Spumante) DOCG?

A

Moscato Bianco

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86
Q

Percentage of Piemonte’s total wine production of DOC or DOCG.

A

Almost 90%

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87
Q

Which well known Barolo vineyards are covered by the Serravallian age soil formation (3)?

A
  1. Monforte d’Alba
  2. Serralunga d’Alba
  3. Part of Castiglino Falletto
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88
Q

What are two grape varieties be added to Nebbiolo in Gattinara wine?

A
  1. Vespolina
  2. Uva Rara
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89
Q

For the most part, the soils of Barolo belong to which formation of the two?

A

Torotonia Formation

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90
Q

Name the grape variety cultivated in Langhe, on the southern hills of Monferrato as well as in the areas around Acqui Terme, Ovada and Tortona. Boasts three DOCGs and four DOCs expressly dedicated to it.

A

Dolcetto

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91
Q

Where is Barolo DOCG located?

A

On the right bank of the Tanaro River in the northwestern part of Langhe - Alba is a few miles to the north east of Barolo separating it from Barbaresco.

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92
Q

What is the viticultural heart of Canavese district named after the city that lies within it.

A

Ivrea glacial moraine basin

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93
Q

What are the tradtional sytle of Barolo until 1970s?

A

Long macerations (one to two months)

Extended in large neutral Slavonian oak or chesnut casks (botti)

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94
Q

What is another name for Nebbiolo known in the Northern Piemonte?

A

Spanna

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95
Q

What appellation is situated opposite of Gattinara on the other side of the Sesia River

A

Ghemme DOCG (!)

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96
Q

What river bisects the Canavese district from north to south from Valle d’Aosta towards the Po River?

A

The Dora Baltea River

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97
Q

What are the main grape varieties grown in Roero? (4)

A
  1. Arneis
  2. Nebbiolo
  3. Barbera
  4. Favorita (related to Vermentino/Pigato of Liguria)
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98
Q

Why do grape growers highly value Dolcetto?

A

It ripens on cooler higher sites where Nebbiolo nor Barbera won’t grow well

It results in Dolcetto wines to be released sooner becoming a welcome source of income while other wines are still in the cellar

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99
Q

Whiat common nickname given to younger generation of winemakers who began experimenting with more approachable style of Barolo in 1980s?

A

“Barolo Boys”

100
Q

Which soil type (formation) Barbaresco belong to?

A

The Tortonian

101
Q

Which river flows through Barolo and Barabresco? Which side of the river Barolo and Barbaresco located?

A

The Tanaro River

The right bank

102
Q

What is the largest lake in Piemonte and where. it is located?

A

Lake Maggiore

Located at the northeastern border with Lombardia.

103
Q

What is the traditional and most common style of Freisa d’Asti DOC (!)?

A

Off dry frizzante

104
Q

Which river flows north from the western Ligurian Apennines into the Po River separates the Roero hills on the left bank from the Langhe hills on the right bank?

A

The Tanaro River

105
Q

Why should Asti (Spumante) be consumed young?

A

Contains Geroniol, an aromatic compound of Moscato grape. With age, geraniol becomes sharp, compromizing the aromatic balance of the wine.

106
Q

Why is Nebbiolo considered to be challenging grape to grow (3)?

A
  1. Early budding, late ripening
  2. Struggles to ripen - needs well exposed south facing sites
  3. Very fussy about soils (preferring calcareous marls) - site sensitive
107
Q

Minimum ageing requirements of Barolo and Riserva Barolo.

A
  • 38 months of which at least 18 months in oak
  • Riserva: 62 months with same minimum months in oak
108
Q

How many appellations are in Langhe and Roero?

A

12

109
Q

Which appellation Arneis grape is bottled under?

A

Roero (Arneis) DOCG

110
Q

Piemonte claims the highest number of top wine awards each year. True or False

A

True (Tuscano, the only Italy region rivals Piemonte)

111
Q

Dolcetto is put on high regards from Langhe producers.

List two reasons.

A
  1. Early ripening nature
  2. No need for prolonged maturation in oak
112
Q

What minimum percentage of Brachetto grape to be in Brachetto d’Acqui wine?

A

97%

113
Q

What is major climate risk in Langhe and Monferrato during late summer and early autumn?

A

Hail

114
Q

What is the percentage of Cortese grape for Gavi DOCG?

A

100%

115
Q

Name two geological differences between the Roero Hills and Langhe Hills

A
  1. Roero: low-rising and steeply sloped
  2. Langhe: higher in elevation with more gradual slopes
116
Q

What river separates the Vercelli province in the west from the Novara province in the east?

A

The Sesia River

117
Q

What are main differences between Nebbiolo based wine in Langhe/Roero compared to northern Gattinara and Ghemme?

A
  • Bigger
  • Fuller in body
  • Higher in alcohol
118
Q

This DOCG is one of the largest in Italy (with an average annual production of more than 90 million bottles). Volumetrically it is Piemonte’s largest appellation.

A

Asti DOCG (!)

119
Q

Which three mountains surround Piemonte and which two countries and two regions separate Piemonte?

A
  1. Ligurian Apennines
  2. the Maritime Alps

separate the region from Liguria and France to the south

  1. The Alps form the borders with France
  2. Valle d’Aosta and Switzerland to the north
  3. Lombardia
120
Q

What “unofficial term”, ancient name of Tortona is used on the label of Timorasso based wine in Colli Tortonesi DOC?

A

“Derthona”

121
Q

Red grape considered to be native to Monferrato and its lone stronghold is its historic home.

The berries contain a high number of pips which explains its name.

Light bodied wine with moderate alcohol but with surprisingly high in tannin and acid.

A

Grignolino (!)

122
Q

What is the soil type of Asti?

A

Sabbie astiane (Astil sands)

123
Q

What is the fallback DOC that covers the entire Monferrato area, that allows extensive use of international varieties?

A

Monferrato DOC

124
Q

What are the characteristics of the Serravallian age soill?

A

Composed of sandstone, silty marls and sand.

Poorer, less compact and less fertile than Tortonian

125
Q

Which school was founded in 1885 to train winemaking professionals in Piemonte?

A

The Enological School of Alba

126
Q

Which grape varieties are bottled for Roero DOCG?

A

Arneis (accouting for the majorityof the plantings)

Nebbiolo

127
Q

What industrial company was formed in 1899 in Torino?

A

Fiat

128
Q

Which historic wine district is located in northern Piemonte at the foohills of the Alps.

It is located to the west of the Vercelli and Novara hills, just south of Valle d’Aosta.

A

Canavese

129
Q

Which two communes of Gavi MGAs are considered to the finest examples of Gavi wine?

A
  1. Gavi
  2. Tassarolo
130
Q

Aromas and Flavors of Dolcetto (up to six)

A
  1. Deep in color
  2. Fragramt grapey and black fruit aromas
  3. Ripe plum with almond and licorice flavors
  4. Typically low in acid
  5. Noticeable tannins
  6. Pleasantly bitter finish
131
Q

Second largest Piemontese appellation, producing 20 million bottles of wine every year, volumetrically outraking all other Piemont reds.

A

Barbera d’Asti DOCG (!) - in Monferrato Astigiano

132
Q

What percentage of Nebbiolo is in Nebbiolo d’Alba DOC?

A

100%

133
Q

What is a specific designation for wines that are produced from high altitude (minimally 1600 ft/500m in elevation), terraced vineyards with minimum of a 30% gradient called in Piemonte DOC?

A

Vigneti di Montagna (vineyards of the mountains)

134
Q

All Asti (spumante) wine are made by Asti / Tank method. True or False.

A

False.

There is small production of traditional method made wine which must spend a minimum of 9 months on the lees.

135
Q

What are two sub-zones of the Barbera d’Asti Superiore DOCG?

A
  1. Tinella
  2. Colli Astiani (or Astiano)
136
Q

What is the main difference of Asti method from the tank method?

A

Asti method does not involve the creation of a still dry base wine. It is made by a single fermentation that is stopped and restarted at specific points.

137
Q

This appellation centers around a village in the middle of western Langhe on the right bank of the Tanaro River.

Considers itself the capital of Dolcetto.

A

Dogliani DOCG (!)

138
Q

What influences climatic conditions in the Novera and Vercelli sub-region?

Name two.

A
  1. Lake Maggiore and smaller lLake Orta
  2. The Alps
139
Q

In Barolo, Barbaresco, Langhe and Roero, what are the best vineyard sites often called (2) for a superior site on the higher part of the hill and a well exposed sunny site respectively?

A
  • Bricco - a superior site on the higher part of the hill
  • Sori - a well exposed sunny site
140
Q

What will play a critical role in vintage variation in Carema DOC

A

In cooler years Nebbiolo struggles to achieve an acceptable level of ripeness.

141
Q

What are the main differences between Moscato d’Asti DOCG and Asti (spumante) DOCG? (up to six)

A
  1. Moscato d’Asti made from the best and ripest grapes
  2. Fermentation stopped by chilling the must when alcohol reaches 5 - 5.5%
  3. Slightly fizzy (not spumante) around 2.5 atm
  4. Bottled with a normal cork
  5. Vintage dated
  6. Crafted by small scale producers
142
Q

How is Gavi labelled if the grapes are entirely grown in Gavi MGA/commune?

A

Gavi DOCG del Commune di Gavi

143
Q

What geographical factors influence the climate in Alba district?

A
  1. The Tanaro River moderates vineyards flanking it.
  2. Warm air coming from Ligurian Sea reaches Langhe and Roero Hills to offset the cool air from the Alps
144
Q

What is additional geographic designation Barolo added since 2010?

A

MGA (Menzioni Geographiche Aggiuntive)

145
Q

What are soil differences between Langhe and Roero?

A
  1. Langhe: Terre Bianche, white soils (compact calcareous marls) from 15 million years ago
  2. Roero: Softer and sandier and rich in marine fossils from 5 million years ago
146
Q

What agricultural product is mainly grown in the plains of Novara and Vercelli and well known throughout Europe?

A

Rice (Italy is the largest producer of rice in Europe and Piemonte is the largest in Italy)

Rice is known as Arborio from the town in the province of Vercelli and for risotto.

147
Q

What will be the wine from La Morra and Barolo characterized based on the Tortonian formation compared to the other Barolo well known communes?

A
  1. More perfumed
  2. Elegant
  3. Fruitier and softer
  4. Mature relatively more rapidly
148
Q

What is soil type formation of Asti DOCG?

A

Terre Bianche

149
Q

What is the name of Pergola system in Carema DOC of pillars made of stones and mortars to protect from strong winds sweep through the Dora Baltea Valley?

A

Topia

150
Q

This DOC covers the enitre province of Asti, occupying all of Monferatto Astigiano. It is based on the local and indigenous red grape variety which has a partiuclar stronghold just to the north of Asti.

A

Freisa d’Asti DOC (!)

151
Q

Langhe Hills are generally divided into two, referencing the altitude of the hills. What are they and what town is considered the point of separation?

A
  1. Alt Langa (Higher Langhe)
  2. Bassa Langa (Lower Langhe)
  3. Monforte d’Alba
152
Q

Name four most widely planted grapes in Langhe.

A
  1. Nebbiolo
  2. Dolcetto
  3. Barbera
  4. Moscato Bianco
153
Q

What grape variety can be considered to be the first step when climbing up the Langhe wine ladder?

First wine to be released

Earliest to mature

Generally the first wine served during the traditional mutli course Albese (from Alba) meals.

A

Dolcetto

154
Q

A DOC historically known for the small production of the classic and renowned Nebbiolo based vino di montagna (mountain wine) in Canavese.

A

Carema DOC (!)

155
Q

One DOCG and one DOC appellations together volumetrically the the third largest appellation for Barbera in Piemonte

A

Barbera del Monferrato Superiore DOCG (!) and Barbera del Monferrato DOC (!)

156
Q

Name three appellations on the west bank of the Sesia River in the province of Vercelli and Biella

A
  1. Gattinara
  2. Bramaterra
  3. Lessona
157
Q

What are three official sub-zones that may appear on the wine labels of Moscato d’Asti DOCG?

A
  1. Canelli (the largest sub-zone) Inclues a part of Barolo and Barbaresco
  2. Santa Vittoria d’Alba - the smallest sub zone
  3. Strevi
158
Q

What region/area the Novara and Vercelli hills district is bordering?

A

Lombardia

159
Q

What are characteristics of Barolo wine?

A
  • Ligh ruby to garnet acquires a brick orange hue over time
  • Intense and complex aromas of rose and violet, fresh red berries, cherries and tar and earth.
  • Long lasting
  • Notorious acid-tannin core
160
Q

What is Barolo Chinato?

A

A rare aromtized and fortified wine

Aromatic herbs are added, wine entirely made of Barolo

Its produciton falls within the Barolo DOCG appellation

161
Q

How many MGAs are recognized in Barbaresco?

A

66 MGAs

162
Q

The only appellation out of 7 appellations in Novara/Vercelli hills that allow up to 30% Croatina with Nebbiolo blend.

A

Bramaterra DOC (!)

163
Q

This small DOCG centers around the town of Castagnole Monferrato just a few miles northeast of Asti.

It is based on a local and indigenous red variety, rarely found elsewhere.

A

Ruche di Castgnole Monferrato DOCG (!)

164
Q

Rainfall is an issue in Monferrato, Asti and Roero. True or False

A

False

Rainshadow from the Apls results in very little precipitation especially Roero as it is know as one of the driest areas in Italy

165
Q

Minimum ageing requirements for Barbaresco and its Riserva

A

26 months of which nine months in oak

Riserva: 50 months with a minimum nine months in oak

166
Q

Along with Nebbiolo and Barbera, Langhe is said to produce the finest examples of this grape and makes the most wine from the variety.

What is the grape variety?

A

Dolcetto

167
Q

What is the principal city of Colli Tortonesi DOC(!) ?

A

Tortona, found in the north of the appellation

168
Q

What town is the major production center for the Astil DOCG?

A

Canelli

169
Q

What is a rosato style wine with blends of several native and international grapes called in Monferrato DOC?

A

Ciaret” (Chiaretto)

170
Q

Who acquired the castle of Barbaresco (including the surrouding vineyards) and founded the first cooperative in Barbaresco in 1894?

A

Domizio Cavazza

director of the Royal School of Enology of Alba

171
Q

What is the northernmost of the seven Nebbiolo-based appellations and is the most prestigeous of those on the east bank after Ghemme?

A

Boca DOC (!)

172
Q

How many IGTs in Piemonte?

A

Zero

173
Q

Generally Nebbiolo is planted at the best sites and aspects of Langhe hills. For the top and bottom of hills, which two other grapes are mostly planted?

A
  1. Barbera
  2. Dolcetto
174
Q

What minimum percentage of Barbera is required for Barbera del Monferrato Superiore DOCG and Barbera del Monferrato DOC?

A

85% Barbera

Up to 15% Freisa, Gignolino, Dolcetto

However most tend to be 100%

175
Q

What are two types of soils in Barolo and Langhe in general?

A
  1. Tortonian (younger)
  2. Serravallian (previously known as Helvetian)
176
Q

Piemonte is the largest region in Italy. True or False.

A

False.

Sicily is the largest.

177
Q

What is the minimum ageing requirements of Gattinara wine and for Riservas

A
  • Minimum of 35 months of ageing
  • Includes 24 months in oak
  • Riservas: 47 months with 36 months in oak
178
Q

Who is credited for transforming Barbaresco to world class wine with cult status as well as raising the image of Italian wine in general?

A

Angelo Gaja

179
Q

This DOCG and DOC cover exactly the same area around the town of Ovada, just west of Gavi DOCG.

The DOC and DOCG produce the third largest volume of Dolcetto in Piemonte.

A

Dolcetto di Ovada Superiore (or Ovada) DOCG

Dolcetto di Ovada DOC (1)

180
Q

Which Barbera wine is considered by many to be quintessential expression of Barbera: Barbera d’Alba or Barbera d’Asti?

A

Barbera d’Asti

181
Q

What is the accepted percentage of Nebbiolo in Barolo wine?

A

100%

182
Q

How large is Barolo compared to Barberesco in the area under vine and in production?

A

Three times

183
Q

What is the main reason for different Piemonte cultures, traditions and language?

A

Powerful independent politcal entities, Marquisates ruled for centuries as they were based in Monferrato, Saluzzo, Asti, Alessandra and Novara.

184
Q

Most widely planted grape overall in Piemonte

A

Barbera

185
Q

Two prestigeous Nebbiolo based DOCG appellations in Novara and Vercelli Hills sub region of Piemonte

A

1. Gattinara

2. Ghemme

186
Q

Which producer is considered to be the modern day pioneer of Gavi who helped to popularize it in 1960s and 1970s.

A

La Scolca

187
Q

Grape varitety with the second most widely planted variety overall thanks to the popularity of Ast DOCG.

A

Moscato Bianco

188
Q

Which areas did UNESCO recognize in 2014 as a World Heritage Site for “vineyard landscape” for outstanding landscape of historic and prestigeous winegrowing areas?

A

“Piedmont; Langhe-Roero and Monferrato”

189
Q

The most important appellation for the Cortese.

The winegrowing area lies in the southeast corner of Alto Monferrato in the province of Alessandria where Piermonte and Liguria aestehtically merge landscape wise.

A

Gavi (or Cortese di Gave) DOCG (!)

190
Q

What are advantages of using Tank (Marinotti) method for Asti (Spumante) wine? (2)

A
  1. Less labor intensive, less expensive
  2. Better preserve the aromatic irchness of Moscato grape
191
Q

Appellation based on Barbera, extending to both sides of the Tanaro River including both banks of the Tanaro River, Barolo, Barbersco and Roero.

A

Barbera d’Alba DOC (!)

192
Q

Native to the Roero hills.

White grape variety rescued from extinction by producers - Bruno Giacosa and Vietti

Means difficult personality in local dialect

Tends to drop acid rapidly when approaching fully ripe

A

Arneis (aka Nebbiolo Bianco) (!)

193
Q

What are the features of more “modern” style of Barolo since 1980s?

A
  • More international style
  • Fruit driven
  • More approachable upon release
  • Softer tannins
  • More concentration
  • Noticeable more oak
194
Q

Two food-friendly Piemonte’s go-to every day wine

A
  1. Barbera
  2. Dolcetto
195
Q

Topological feature that lacks in Piemonte compared to other Northen wine regions in Italy

A

Prealps

(high elevation mountains descend directly to the plain)

196
Q

A small hilltop village south of Alba and east of Barolo appellation forms this Dolcetto based appellation.

A

Dolcetto di Diano d’Alba (Diano d’Alba) DOCG (!)

197
Q

Is Lower Langhe (south of Monforte d’Alba) cooler or hotter than Higher Langhe? What grape variety is suitable for growing?

A
  1. Cooler
  2. Dolcetto
198
Q

A fortified wine first created in Torino by Antonio Benedetto Carpano in 1876.

Carpano used the name adapted from German word for wormwood

Historically crafted from Moscato Bianco around the town of Canelli.

Drunk as an apertif and as a component in cocktails

A

Vermouth

199
Q

What river does the Sesia River flow into?

A

The Po River

200
Q

Top 6 grape varieties in Piemonte by production

A
  1. Barbera (30%)

2. Moscato Bianco (21%)

3. Dolcetto (13%)

4. Nebbiolo (9%)

5. Cortese (5%)

6. Brachetto (3%)

201
Q

Most widely planted white grape in Piemonte

Predominantly used for the production of the world’s most popular sweet sparklling wine - Asti Spumante

Pronounced floral and fruity aromas.

A

Moscato Bianco (Muscat Blanc a Petit Grains) (!)

Also used to craft the superior Moscato d’Asti

202
Q

Grape Variety that has the greatest reputation of all the grapes in Piemonte, Most plantings are concentrated in the prestigeous appellations of Barolo and Barbaresco.

A

Nebbiolo

203
Q

DOCG with the zone of production situated south of Carema in the east central part of the Canavese district, entirely within the banks of the Ivrea glacial morain, most vineyards clustered around Candia and Viverone lakes. It produces dry white and sweet wine.

A

Erbaluce di Caluso (Caluso) DOCG (!)

204
Q

What three minor grape variety may be blended to Nebbiolo in the Novara and Vercelli sub-region?

A
  1. Vespolina (Ughetta)
  2. Croatina
  3. Uva Rara (locally known as Boarda Novarese)
205
Q

Grape variety and percentage for Coste della Sesia Bianco DOC

A

100% Erbaluce

206
Q

This DOC features an ingenous red grape highly appreciated by locals and largely consumed locally.

The appellation is centered around Asti, particulary on the hills to the north and south of the city.

A

Grignolino d’Asti DOC (!)

207
Q

DOCG centers around the ancient Roman town of Acqui Termen. this appellation produces sweet aromatic and typically sparkling red wine.

A

Brachetto d’Acqui (or Acqui) DOCG (!)

208
Q

How many DOCGs and DOCs are in Piemnonte?

A

17 DOCGs

42 DOCs

209
Q

What are two categories under the same Asti DOCG?

A

Asti DOCG (spumante)

Moscato d’Astii DOCG (lightly fizzy wine produced in small quantities)

210
Q

% of Mountains, Hills and Plains in Piemonte

A

Mountains: 43%

Hllls: 30%

Plains 27%

211
Q

Name important hill clusters in Piemonte (5)

A
  1. Monferrato (the largest)
  2. Langhe
  3. Roero
  4. Hills of Novarra and Vercelli
  5. Tortona (Colli Tortones)
212
Q

What is Barbera d’Alba “baroleggia”?

A

Barbera to develop Barolo like profile with bottle age

213
Q

Minimum ageing requirements for Roero Nebbiolo wine and for Riserva

A
  • 20 months with six months in oak
  • Riserva: minimum 32 months with minimum six months in oak
214
Q

A fallback DOC that allows more flexible production requirements including international and native grapes in Piemonte.

For varietal wines must include at least 85% of the stated variety such as for Nebbiolo, Dolcetto, Arneis or Chardonnay.

A

Langhe DOC (!)

215
Q

Key attributes that make Barbera special for grape growers (2)

A

1. Produtivity

2. Versality

(late ripening and retains acdity even when fully ripe)

216
Q

What is the minimum percentage of Nebbiolo in Roero DOCG wine?

A

95%

217
Q

What is aresuscitated native white grape variety recently attracting new attention in Colli Tortenesi DOC?

A

Timorasso (!)

218
Q

This DOC is situated in the northernmost part of the Canavese district, right on the border with Valle d’Aosta on the narrow strips of terraced vineyards.

A

Carema DOC (!)

219
Q

One of the Piemonte’s oldest grape varieties, recorded as early as 16th century.

Plantings largely found near Asti, Torino, and in Langhe.

It has distinctive aromas of strawberry, raspberry with a chacrateristic bitterness traditionally balanced with a little residual sugar.

Dry or sweet, still, frizzante qnd spumante.

A

Freisa (!)

220
Q

What will be the two vineyards/communes/villages in Barolo that are covered by the Tortonian formation?

A
  1. La Morra
  2. Barolo
221
Q

What is the grape variety mix of Alba DOC?

A

Nebbiolo: 70-85%

Barbera: 15-30%

Other permitted grapes: up to 5%

222
Q

Name two wine districts of Northern Piemonte (Alto Piemonte)

A

1. Novara and Vercelli Hills

2. Canavese

223
Q

Piemonte accounts for the largest proportion of DOC/DOCG wine Italy. True or False

A

True

224
Q

How many MGAs are in Barolo and how many are communal (villages) ?

A
  1. 181 MGAs
  2. 11 Communal
225
Q

What is the major grape variety in the Novara and Vercelli and Biera sub-region?

A

Nebbiolo

226
Q

Name prominent MGAs in Barbaresco

A
  1. Basarin
  2. Gallina
  3. Marinenga
  4. Montefico
  5. Montestefano
  6. Ovello
  7. Pajore
  8. Pora
  9. Rabaja
227
Q

Grape varitey most widely planted in Piemonte before Phylloxera

A

Dolcetto

228
Q

Who were known as the first people/tribes to inhabit Piemonte?

A

Taurini

Salassi

229
Q

A rare aromatic red grape most likely native to the town of Castignole in the province of Asti, almost exclusive to this area

Intensely perfumed with distinctive aromas and flavors of rose, red fruit and spice

A

Ruche (!)

230
Q

Who introduced Barolo to the aristocratic circles in Torino as well as to the House of Savoy to spread the fame of Barolo?

A

Marquise of Barolo, Giulia Falleti

231
Q

Piemonte’s red wine produciton percentage

A

More than 60%

232
Q

What is typical alcohol range and atm pressure of Asti (spumante) wine?

A
  • 7 - 9.5%
  • 5-6 atm
233
Q

Best known of Dolcetto appellations and produces the most wine.

A

Dolcetto d’Alba DOC (!)

234
Q

Monferrato is considered the historic home to some of Piemonte’s most traditional grapes. Name three (2 red, one white).

A
  1. Barbera
  2. Grignolino
  3. Cortese
235
Q

True or false:

Langhe DOC wine can have the label without rosso or bianco mentioned and allows for rosato and passito versions.

A

True

236
Q

Where did the first Italian enological congress was held?

A

Torino in 1875

237
Q

This appellation is located in the very southeast corner of Piemonte, bordering Lombardia and Emilia-Romagna to the east and Liguria to the south.

The DOC lies between Alto Monferrato and Lmbardria’s Oltrepo Pavese.

A

Colli Toronesi DOC (!)

238
Q

Minimum Ruche grape variety requirement in Ruche di Castagnole Monferrato dry wine.

A

90%

239
Q

What is the minimu,m percentage of Nebbiolo in Ghemme wine?

A

85% Nebbiolo with Vespolian and Uva Rara making up the rest

240
Q

A more recent appellation that includes both banks of the Tanaro River including the hills of Roero, Barolo and Barberesco.

A

Alba DOC

241
Q

What are the characteristics of wine produced from Monforte d’Alba, Serralunga d’Alba and part of Castiglinoe Fallati from the Serravailian age soil formation compared to La Morra and Barolo communes?

A
  1. More power
  2. More depth
  3. Fuller in body
  4. More robust and structured
  5. Long lived and requiring more time in the bottle
242
Q

What is Barolo referred to with “re dei vini e vino dei re”?

A

“King of wines and wine of kings”

243
Q

Name one DOCG and one DOC in Canavese sub region of Piemonte surrouding the city of Ivrea, north of Torino,

A

1. Erbaluce di Caluso DOCG

2. Carema DOC

244
Q

Who created the fully sparkling version of Astil in the second half of 19th century?

A

Carlo Gancia

245
Q

What range of percentage of Nebbiolo must account for in Bramaterra DOC wine?

A

50-80%