Alto Mincio

The protected geographical indication "Alto Mincio" includes three types of wine: white (also sparkling and passito), red (with sparkling, passito and novello variants) and rosé (also in the sparkling variant).

Grapes

All wines must be obtained from grapes from vines suitable for cultivation in Lombardia. The specification of a particular vine (Merlot, Cabernet, Sangiovese, Rondinella, Molinara, Chardonnay, Pinot Bianco, Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon, Riesling b., Garganega, Pinot Nero also vinified in white, and Riesling Italico) is reserved for wines made from grapes at least 85% of which come from that vine. Grapes from non-aromatic vines suitable for cultivation in Lombardia may be used to produce the wine, up to a maximum of 15%.

Physicochemical and Organoleptic properties

The white "Alto Mincio" has a straw yellow colour, with a harmonious bouquet and full flavour. The Rosé version is characterized by a delicate smell and a dry taste. The red has a ruby red colour, with a vinous aroma and a dry flavour. For the three versions, the minimum alcoholic strength shall be 10,00% vol. The novello red, on the other hand, is an intense red colour, which combines with a fruity perfume and a dry, fresh flavour. The alcoholic strength shall be 11,00 % vol. The white wine passito is distinguished by its dark yellow colour, fruity aroma and savoury taste. Passito red, on the other hand, has a dark red colour, combined with an intense perfume and a harmonious flavour. For both passitoes the alcoholic strength is 12.00% vol.

Grape production area

The production area comprises the hilly area covering all or part of the administrative territory of the municipalities of: Castiglione delle Stiviere, Cavriana, Monzambano, Ponti sul Mincio, Solferino and Volta Mantovana, in the province of Mantova.

Specificity and historical notes

The specificity of P.G.I. wines of the "Alto Mincio" is linked to the territory. Production is closely linked to soil and climate factors, in particular morainic soil, hillside exposure and breezes.