Oltrepò Pavese

Oltrepò Pavese

45°06'02.3"N

LATITUDE

9°22'34.0"E

LONGITUDE

4

APPELATIONS

about this subregion

Overview of the Oltrepò Pavese DOC

The Oltrepò Pavese DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) of Tuscany produces a delightful range of wines. Among the most common Oltrepo wines are Bianco, Rosato, Rosso and Sparkling wines. The Bianco wine, a symbol of elegance, boasts a minimum composition of 60% Riesling and/or Welschriesling, also known as Riesling Italico. This delicate blend is complemented by a maximum of 40% Pinot Nero and other approved grape varieties. The result is a crisp and refreshing wine with floral aromas, citrus notes, and a balanced acidity, perfect for warm afternoons and light fare.

The Rosato wine, a delightful rosé, highlights the local terroir with a blend of 25-65% Barbera and Croatina grapes. It includes up to 40% Pinot Nero, Uva Rara, and/or Vespolina, and a maximum of 15% other authorized varieties. This wine features a lively pink color and aromas of red berries, cherries, and spice. Its fresh taste makes it perfect for summer meals and outdoor gatherings.

The Oltrepò Pavese DOC Rosso red wine is known for its dark fruit flavors, earthy notes, and herbal elegance. It is well-structured and pairs perfectly with hearty dishes, showcasing the region's winemaking tradition and passion.

The Oltrepò Pavese DOC's Bianco, Rosato, and Rosso wines collectively embody the spirit of Tuscany and Italy, providing wine enthusiasts with an enticing journey through the region's diverse and captivating flavors.

Associations

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Vineyard Hectares

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WINERIES

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GROWING DEGREE DAYS

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Location of the Oltrepò Pavese DOC

The production area of the Oltrepo Pavese DOC is located in the Lombardy wine region. It includes the mountainous wine belt of the "Oltrepò Pavese", covering 42 municipalities in the province of Pavia.

This region is renowned for its picturesque rolling hills and diverse microclimates, which contribute to the unique characteristics of the wines produced here. The proximity to the Alps and the Po River creates a favorable environment for viticulture, allowing for the cultivation of a wide variety of grapes.

The region's strategic location, combined with its rich history of winemaking, dating back to Roman times, makes it a significant player in Italy's wine industry. The Oltrepò Pavese is particularly famous for its sparkling wines, often drawing comparisons to the Champagne region of France. This area not only produces exquisite still wines but also boasts a thriving sparkling wine production, thanks to its ideal climate and soil conditions. With a commitment to quality and tradition, the Oltrepò Pavese DOC continues to captivate wine enthusiasts from around the world.

Climate of Oltrepò Pavese

The hills do not exceed altitudes of 300 to 400 meters, and the vineyards are primarily situated at elevations between 100 and 300 meters. The region experiences a dry climate in winter and windy conditions in summer.

These climatic conditions, combined with the rolling hills and diverse microclimates, create an ideal environment for cultivating a wide range of grape varieties. Dry winters help to prevent diseases that can affect the vines, while summer winds help keep the grapes healthy and free from excessive moisture.

This unique climate also contributes to the distinct characteristics of the wines produced in Oltrepò Pavese, allowing for a balance of acidity and fruit-forward flavors. The varying altitudes and exposure to sunlight across the hillsides result in a rich tapestry of terroirs, each imparting its own subtle nuances to the wines. This diversity is reflected in the region's ability to produce not only outstanding red wines but also exceptional white and sparkling wines that rival those from other renowned wine regions.

Soils of Oltrepò Pavese

The ideal areas for producing sparkling bases and white wines are between Montecalvo Versiggia and Santa Maria della Versa, and from Rocca Susella to Rocca de' Giorgi. These regions offer limestone and clay soils, perfect for Pinot Nero, Pinot Bianco, and Chardonnay grapes. The vineyards' elevation and orientation ensure optimal sun exposure and drainage, essential for vibrant acidity and complex flavors in sparkling and white wines.

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What Are the Signature Grapes of Oltrepò Pavese?

Nestled in Lombardy, Italy, the Oltrepò Pavese wine region is a treasure trove of grape diversity. Its rolling hills and mixed soils create the perfect playground for growing both red and white grape varieties. Each grape tells a story of the land, finding its own special place in this wine lover's paradise.

Most Planted Red Grape Varieties

  1. Pinot Nero (Pinot Noir): This grape absolutely loves the limestone-rich soils of the region. The hills and changing temperatures are like a perfect home for Pinot Nero, helping it produce amazing still and sparkling wines that capture the essence of the landscape.
  2. Croatina: A bit tricky to grow, Croatina needs just the right conditions. The clay soils and breezy summers of Oltrepò Pavese help this grape overcome its challenges, allowing it to ripen fully and develop its unique character.
  3. Barbera: Super adaptable, Barbera thrives in the region's rich soils. Warm, sunny spots bring out the best in this grape, creating juicy, flavorful wines that dance on the palate.
  4. Uva Rara: This grape fits right into the hilly terrain. Give it some well-drained land and plenty of sunshine, and Uva Rara will reward you with its distinctive flavors.
  5. Ughetta (Vespolina): Loving the hillside vineyards, Ughetta finds its sweet spot in the region's clay soils. The dramatic temperature changes add depth and complexity to its character.

Most Planted White Grape Varieties

  1. Riesling Italico (Welschriesling): Cool and crisp, this grape thrives in limestone soils. The region's hilly landscape helps it maintain a refreshing balance that wine lovers adore.
  2. Riesling Renano: Another cool-climate champion, this grape produces wines with a beautiful mineral touch. The limestone soils work their magic, creating wines with bright, singing acidity.
  3. Pinot Grigio: Comfortable in cool to moderate climates, Pinot Grigio finds a perfect home in varied terrain. The limestone and clay soils add depth and character to its wines.
  4. Pinot Bianco: This grape loves cooler spots and calcareous soils. The hills and temperature shifts help it develop a complex and fresh personality.
  5. Cortese Bianco: Incredibly flexible, Cortese Bianco shines brightest in well-drained, limestone-rich soils. The region's moderate climate lets it show off its subtle charms.
  6. Moscato: Sun-loving and vibrant, Moscato thrives in the region's well-drained, hilly vineyards. It creates aromatic wines that capture the warmth and spirit of the landscape.
  7. Malvasia: Happy in warm spots, Malvasia loves clay soils and abundant sunshine. It produces expressive wines that tell the story of Oltrepò Pavese.
  8. Müller-Thurgau: A cool-climate enthusiast, this grape finds its groove in the region's varied soils. The hills and temperature changes keep its wines fresh and lively, like a summer breeze.

What are the Signature Oltrepo Pavese Wines?

Tucked away in Lombardy, Oltrepò Pavese is a wine paradise that offers an incredible range of wines capturing the region's spirit. Three wine styles truly stand out: the Rosso, Rosato, and Bianco. Something to keep in mind is that within this appellation, you will only find still wines. If you want to try similar wines to those of the Champagne region, you will need to search for the Oltrepo Pavese Metodo Classico DOCG label.

Oltrepò Pavese Rosso

The red wine produced within this region is crafted from a blend of red grapes that shows off the region's wine expertise. Made with:

  • Barbera (25-65%)
  • Croatina (25-65%)
  • A mix of Pinot Nero, Uva Rara, and/or Vespolina (up to 40%)
  • A touch of other local red grapes (no more than 15%)

This wine comes alive with a deep ruby-red color and a mouthwatering aroma. The nose is filled with ripe fruit-forward notes of blackberries and blueberries, mixed with warm spices. On the palate, you will feel smooth fruit flavors roll across your tongue, followed by a creamy texture with a hint of citrus. The wine finishes with a spicy, slightly bitter almond note that keeps you coming back for more.

Wine lovers should try the Riserva version, which has been aged for 24 months to develop deeper, more complex flavors.

Oltrepò Pavese Rosato

Made from the same grapes as the Rosso, this rosé is a delicate delight. Its color shifts from soft pink to cherry pink, hinting at its elegant character. The aroma is subtle and inviting, while the taste is dry, smooth, and perfectly balanced.

For a fun twist, try the semi-sparkling version that adds a playful bubble to your glass.

Oltrepò Pavese Bianco

A fresh white wine that proves the region's talents go beyond reds. The blend includes:

  • At least 60% Riesling and/or Welschriesling
  • Up to 40% Pinot Nero and other white grapes

Bright straw-yellow in color, the wine offers delicate floral and fruity aromas. It tastes smooth and round, showing that Oltrepò Pavese can create amazing white wines just as easily as its legendary reds.

Oltrepò Pavese Sparkling

The Oltrepò Pavese region is renowned for its sparkling wines, labelled under the Oltrepo Pavese Metodo Classico apellation, which are often compared to the illustrious wines of the Champagne region in France. The area's unique climate and soil conditions provide an excellent environment for producing high-quality sparkling wines that captivate the senses. These wines are crafted using the traditional method, also known as the Metodo Classico, which involves a secondary fermentation in the bottle. This meticulous process results in wines with fine bubbles, a creamy texture, and complex flavors.

Grape Varietals Used in the Production of Sparkling Wines

Pinot Nero (Pinot Noir) is the leading grape for sparkling wine in Oltrepò Pavese Metodo Classico. The limestone-rich soils and rolling hills provide perfect conditions for this grape, resulting in wines with elegance and depth. These sparkling wines are known for their bright acidity and fruit-forward aromas, featuring notes of green apple, pear, and citrus, with hints of brioche and almond from aging.

Alongside Pinot Nero, grapes like Pinot Bianco, Chardonnay, and Pinot Grigio contribute to the complexity and richness of Oltrepò Pavese's sparkling wines, offering

Wine enthusiasts visiting the Oltrepò Pavese region can explore the local wineries and vineyards, experiencing firsthand the passion and craftsmanship that go into creating these exquisite sparkling wines. Whether enjoyed on their own or paired with a variety of dishes, Oltrepò Pavese sparkling wines offer a taste of the region's winemaking heritage and a celebration of its vibrant terroir.

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