Asti

Discover the Hidden History Behind the Asti Appellation

Asti DOCG is one of the most renowned Italian wines in the world. Also known as Asti Spumante, it's a sparkling wine made from Moscato Bianco grapes, native to the Langhe area of Piedmont. The wine is one of the most well-known on international markets and has a rich and interesting history to tell. Are you ready to discover the hidden story behind the Asti denomination?

What is Asti DOCG?

Asti DOCG, or Asti Spumante, is a sparkling wine made from Moscato Bianco grapes. Its origins date back to the late 19th century, when a winemaker named Giulio Ferrari had the idea of producing a sparkling wine with Moscato Bianco grapes. The DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) status was awarded in 1993 and has become one of the most well-known and appreciated wines in the world.

Where is it produced?

Asti DOCG is produced in the Piedmont region, specifically in the Langhe area, between the provinces of Cuneo, Asti, and Alessandria. This hilly region is rich in vineyards spanning approximately 16,000 hectares. The area enjoys a mild climate, with slightly cold winters and hot, dry summers. These climatic conditions are ideal for producing quality wines.

What makes Asti DOCG unique?

Asti DOCG is a unique sparkling wine. Its flavor is characterized by an aromatic fragrance with hints of exotic fruit and notes of honey. Its color is straw yellow and its texture is light and velvety. Its alcohol content is approximately 7-9%, and it has an average shelf life of about three years.

What are the production rules?

The production rules for Asti DOCG are very strict. To be considered a true Asti DOCG, the wine must be made entirely from Moscato Bianco grapes, grown in the Piedmont region. It must be vinified with soft pressing and secondary fermentation in the bottle, at a constant, controlled temperature. The production process must be completely natural, with the addition of selected yeasts and minimal added sugar.

How to pair Asti DOCG?

Asti DOCG is a very versatile wine that pairs well with many dishes. It pairs well with appetizers, such as cheeses, cured meats, and canapés; with baked pasta, risotto, and soups; with fish and white meats; and with desserts such as cakes, ice cream, and fresh fruit. It's a wine that pairs well with many recipes and can be served as an aperitif or as an accompaniment to more complex dishes.

How is Asti DOCG preserved?

To fully enjoy its qualities, Asti DOCG should be stored in a cool, dry, and dark place. The ideal temperature is 6-10°C. Once opened, the wine should be consumed within two days and kept refrigerated. It's important to avoid exposing it to heat or direct light, as this can negatively affect the wine's quality.

What is its price?

The price of Asti DOCG varies depending on the winery and producer. It's a quality wine that can be purchased online or in physical wine shops. The average price of a bottle of premium Asti DOCG is between €15 and €25.

In conclusion, Asti DOCG is one of the most popular Italian wines in the world. It has an interesting history that dates back to the late 19th century, when winemaker Giulio Ferrari had the idea of producing a sparkling wine from Moscato Bianco grapes. The wine is produced in the Langhe area of Piedmont according to strict production rules. It is a versatile wine that pairs well with many dishes and can be served as an aperitif or as an accompaniment to more complex dishes. The average price of a bottle of premium Asti DOCG is between €15 and €25.