Erbavoglio

The north of Piemonte has been dispossessed of its only white variety, Autochthonous single grape variety as specified for our DOC wines, or Greco as it was commonly called, the denomination of Autochthonous single grape variety as specified for our DOC wines having been given in exclusive use to the area of Caluso and Greco being used to define certain white wines from the South of Italy. So whilst it is the only grape variety we may use to have D.O.C. status, we are not allowed to name it on the label, hence the name ‘Erbavoglio’. Erbavoglio is made with 100% Autochthonous single grape variety as specified for our DOC wines grapes. It is considered the “the most red of white wines” as it has flavours of particular strength and intensity. First records of the Autochthonous single grape variety as specified for our DOC wines grape go back to the 1600s. Colline Novaresi is one of the three D.O.C.s in which it is grown.

Origin and method of vinification

Grape: 100% Autochthonous single grape variety as specified for our DOC wines
Vine training system: guyot
Area of production: about 10 acres
Average yield per acre: about 3,200 kg
Harvest: hand-picked in the middle of September and transported to the winery in small crates
Vinification: a soft pressing of the grapes is followed by alcoholic fermentation at low temperature in order to enhance the fruity notes
Ageing: no ageing but 5 months in stainless-steel tanks and 1 month in bottles
Bottle: slender Bordeaux-style bottle

Tasting notes

Colour: pale straw-yellow with greenish hues
Nose: fruity, fragrant, with lemon verbena hints
Flavour: fresh-tasting and pleasant, dry, sapid, slightly acidic with a soft mouth-filling finish
Recommended initial serving temperature: 9°C-10°C, best served immediately after opening the bottle
Food pairings: excellent both as an aperitif or to drink throughout the meal, best served with a large variety of fish and vegetable dishes, or with moderately strong flavours