Monferrato, a region rich in history, culture, and enchanting landscapes, is also known for its excellent wine production. Among lush vineyards and rolling hills, fine wines are born that captivate the palates of enthusiasts around the world.
A territory ideal for vineyards
The success of the wines from Monferrato is due to a combination of factors, including:
- Climate: the temperate climate, with cold winters and hot, dry summers, promotes the optimal ripening of grapes.
- Soil: the soils, composed of calcareous marls, clays, and sands, impart unique characteristics to the wines in terms of minerality and structure.
- Grapevines: The presence of native grape varieties, such as Barbera, Grignolino, and Ruché, as well as international varieties, like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, allows for a wide variety of wines.
The wines of Monferrato: a kaleidoscope of flavors
Monferrato boasts a rich winemaking tradition, resulting in a variety of fine wines capable of satisfying even the most discerning tastes. Among the most renowned are:
- Barbera: The native red wine of Monferrato, available in different types:
- Barbera del Monferrato DOC: a young and lively wine with an intense ruby red color, aromas of fresh fruit and spices, and a fresh, harmonious taste. Perfect for pairing with cured meats, pasta dishes, and pizza
- Barbera d’Asti DOCG: a more structured and complex wine, aged in barrels for at least 12 months, acquiring a garnet color and a soft, velvety taste with notes of spices and licorice. Ideal for red meats, aged cheeses, and elaborate main courses.
- Barbera Superiore DOCG: the ultimate expression of Barbera, with aging in barrels that can exceed 24 months. A wine that is austere and long-lived, with intense aromas of ripe fruit, spices, and tobacco, and a full, persistent taste. Perfect for pairing with game, aged cheeses, and for contemplation.
- Grignolino: a red wine with a garnet ruby color, floral and spicy aromas, and a fresh, tannic taste. It stands out in two main types:
- Grignolino del Monferrato Casalese DOC: a young and drinkable wine, perfect for pairing with cured meats, appetizers, and light pasta dishes.
- Grignolino d’Asti DOCG: a more structured and aged wine, with notes of spices and licorice, ideal for red meats, aged cheeses, and elaborate main courses.
- Ruché di Castagnole Monferrato DOCG: a rare and precious red wine, with an intense violet color and a complex aroma of rose, violet, and spices, with an austere and persistent taste. A wine of great personality, perfect for pairing with rich red meats, game, and aged cheeses.
- Malvasia: an aromatic white wine, available in different types, from dry to sweet:
- Malvasia di Casorzo d’Asti DOCG: a dry white wine with a straw yellow color, floral and fruity aromas, and a fresh, mineral taste. Perfect as an aperitif or paired with fish and vegetable dishes.
- Malvasia Nera di Carema DOCG: A sweet white wine with an amber color, aromas of honey, dried fruit, and spices, and a sweet and enveloping taste. Ideal for pairing with pastries and blue cheeses.
In addition to these main types, Monferrato offers a wide range of other wines, including DOCG wines such as Moscato d’Asti and IGT wines like Monferrato Freisa and Monferrato Bianco.