Oltrepò Pavese

The Protected Designation of Origin "Oltrepò Pavese" includes a wide range of wines, both white and red and rosé. Many productions, moreover, have indications of grape variety: Barbera, Riesling, Cortese, Moscato, Malvasia, Pinot Noir, Chardonnnay, Sauvignon and Cabernet Sauvignon. The different variants marketed for each type are listed in the specification.

Grapes

The composition of the production grapes varies according to the types. For red and rosé wines, for example, the presence of Barbera (between 25% and 65%), Croatina (25%-65%), Uva Rare, Ughetta and Pinot Noir (maximum 45%) and other non-aromatic red grapes, suitable for cultivation in Lombardy, is required. For white grapes, on the other hand, Riesling or Riesling Italico (minimum 60%) and Pinot Noir or other non-aromatic white grapes (maximum 40%) are used. Finally, all productions with an indication of the grape variety, require that this represents 85% of the total grapes, possibly combined with those of other similar grape varieties, identified as above.

Physicochemical and Organoleptic properties

The red "Oltrepò Pavese" (11.5% vol.) has an intense ruby colour, combined with an equally perceptible vinous aroma and a full, full-bodied and slightly tannic flavour. Rosato (10.5% vol.), on the other hand, has a tonality that sometimes tends to pale cherry, with a characteristic, slightly winy aroma and a dry, harmonious flavour. Finally, the White (12% vol.) has a typical straw yellow aspect; the aroma is characteristic and intense; the taste is dry and pleasant, with a fresh and harmonious taste. In the specification it is possible to trace the details of the organoleptic characteristics of all the variants made from these basic versions, as well as of the single-variety wines.

Grape production area

The area of production of grapes for the production of Oltrepò Pavese wines includes the hilly wine-growing area of Oltrepò Pavese.

Specificity and historical notes

The current production of the denomination has its roots in the period between the end of 1800 and the beginning of 1900, when phylloxera drastically reduced the number of native vines.