Wines of the Aosta Valley

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Discover the Secrets of the Wines of the Aosta Valley: the Explosion of Aromas and Flavors!

Valle d'Aosta has always been known for its wines, but many do not know the secrets behind these products. The wines of Valle d'Aosta are truly unique and enriched by a vast range of aromas and flavours. Let's discover together all the secrets of these wines, from their origins to their production.

What is the history of the wines of the Aosta Valley?

The history of Valle d'Aosta wines begins in the Middle Ages, when the region was still part of Savoy. Wine production began in the 10th century, but the wines of the Aosta Valley were already known throughout Europe during the 14th and 15th centuries. Wine production has increased over the centuries and today the Aosta Valley is one of the most important wine regions of Italy.

What are the varieties of wine produced in the Aosta Valley?

In the Aosta Valley mainly red, white and rosé wines are produced. The best known white wines are Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc and Torrette. The most famous red wines are Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Pinot Noir and Syrah. The best known rosé wines are Gamay, Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir.

What are the characteristics of the wines of the Aosta Valley?

The wines of Valle d'Aosta are characterized by a great aromatic and gustatory complexity. The red wines are full of aromas of ripe fruit, spices, herbs, chocolate and tobacco. White wines are characterized by aromas of flowers, fruit, apple and pear, while rosé wines are generally fresh and fruity.

What are the best-known wines of the Aosta Valley?

The best-known wines of the Aosta Valley are Torrette, Donnas, Fumin, Petit Rouge, Pinot Grigio and Petit Arvine. These wines are appreciated all over the world for their aromatic and gustatory complexity.

How to pair the wines of the Aosta Valley?

The wines of the Aosta Valley are perfect to accompany dishes based on cheese, meat, fish and vegetables. White wines are ideal for accompanying dishes based on fish and vegetables, while red wines are perfect for accompanying meat and cheese. Rosé wines are perfect to accompany vegetable and meat dishes.

What is the best way to taste the wines of the Aosta Valley?

To better enjoy the wines of the Aosta Valley, it is important to taste them at room temperature. It is advisable to pour the wine into large glasses to allow the aroma to develop better. It's important to take the time to smell the wine before tasting it, so you can better appreciate the aromas and flavors.

Denomination Wines of the Aosta Valley

Are you passionate about wine and want to discover the hidden treasures of the Aosta Valley? In this article, we will explore the richness and variety of wines produced in this fascinating Italian region. We will guide you through the indigenous grape varieties, wine classifications, the most representative red and white wines, production methods, food pairings and much more.

The region of Valle d'Aosta

History

The winemaking tradition of Valle d'Aosta dates back to Roman times. Over the centuries, the cultivation of vines has evolved and adapted to the particular environmental conditions of the region.

Geography

Located in the north-west of Italy, Valle d'Aosta is a small mountainous region, characterized by a remarkable variety of landscapes and microclimates. The vineyards are mainly located along the slopes of the mountains, at altitudes between 300 and 1,200 meters above sea level.

Climate

The climate of Valle d'Aosta is typically alpine, with cold, snowy winters and cool, rainy summers. The temperature variations between day and night favor the ripening of the bunches and the acquisition of complex aromas and flavours.

Native vines

Petit Rouge

Petit Rouge is the most widespread red grape variety in the Aosta Valley. Originally from the region, it produces wines with good structure and freshness, with fruity and spicy notes.

Fumin

Fumin is another autochthonous vine of the Aosta Valley, used both alone and in blends with other varieties. The wines obtained from Fumin are intense, tannic and long-lived.

Prié Blanc

Prié Blanc is the only native white grape of the Aosta Valley. It grows mainly in the highest areas, where it resists the harsh winter temperatures. The wines produced by the Prié Blanc are aromatic, fresh and delicate.

Wine classifications

PDO

Valle d'Aosta has only one denomination DOP (Protected Designation of Origin), Valle d'Aosta DOP, which includes various sub-zones and additional geographical mentions to enhance the wines produced with specific vines and in particular areas of the region.

PGI

Wines that do not fall under the PDO denomination can be classified as PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) Valle d'Aosta, a more flexible category that allows the use of a wider range of grape varieties and production methods.

Red wines from the Aosta Valley

Turrets

Torrette is a red wine mainly produced with Petit Rouge, possibly accompanied by other native vines. Intense ruby in colour, it has a fruity and spicy aroma and a soft and persistent flavour.

Donnas

Donnas is a red wine produced with Nebbiolo grapes (locally called Picotendro), which grow in the lower areas of the Aosta Valley. It is a structured, elegant and long-lasting wine, with fine tannins and notes of red fruits and spices.

Chambave Red

Chambave Rosso is a red wine based on Petit Rouge, Fumin and other local varieties. It has a ruby red colour, an intense aroma of red fruits and spices and a soft and harmonious flavour.

White wines from the Aosta Valley

Blanc de Morgex

Blanc de Morgex is a white wine produced exclusively with the Prié Blanc grape variety, grown in the highest areas of the Aosta Valley. It is a fresh, mineral and aromatic wine, with hints of flowers and white fruits.

Petite Arvine

La Petite Arvine is a vine native to the Swiss Valais, but also highly appreciated in the Aosta Valley. The wine obtained from Petite Arvine is elegant and complex, with notes of exotic fruit, citrus and minerality.

Chambave White

Chambave Bianco is a white wine based on Moscato Bianco and other local vines. It has an intense and floral aroma and a fresh and persistent flavour.

Production method

Vinification in red

Red vinification involves the fermentation of the must in contact with the skins of the grapes, which give colour, tannins and aromas to the wines. In Valle d'Aosta, red vinification is used for the production of native red wines.

Vinification in white

The vinification in white consists in the fermentation of the must without the skins of the grapes, obtaining more delicate and fresh white wines. In Valle d'Aosta, white vinification is used for the production of native white wines.

Food pairings

I vini of the Aosta Valley go perfectly with the local cuisine, rich in flavors and traditions. Red wines go well with meat dishes, such as venison stew or carbonada, while white wines go well with light and tasty dishes, such as Aosta Valley fondue or chestnut soup.

Heroic viticulture

Heroic viticulture is an agricultural practice that takes place in extreme conditions, such as those present in the Aosta Valley. The vineyards are located on rough and steep terrain, difficult to access and work, making the cultivation of vines a difficult and laborious undertaking. However, it is precisely these challenges that give the wines of the region a unique and unmistakable character.

Visits to cellars

If you are interested in discovering the wines and producers of the Aosta Valley in person, you can organize guided tours of the cellars and tastings directly at the vineyards. This is an excellent opportunity to appreciate the beauty of the area and get to know the people who, with passion and dedication, carry on the winemaking tradition of the region.

Valle d'Aosta is a land of unique and fascinating wines, the result of a long tradition and an extraordinary territory. From the discovery of native vines to visits to cellars, immerse yourself in the culture and flavors of this fascinating Italian region and let yourself be conquered by its wines.

Valle d'Aosta is a small wine region located in northwestern Italy at the foot of the Alps. Among the most famous wine appellations of Valle d'Aosta are:

  1. Vallee d'Aosta DOC: is the main denomination of the Aosta Valley and includes a wide range of white and red wines, including Blanc de Morgex et de La Salle, Chardonnay, Petite Arvine, Pinot Noir, Syrah and Fumin.

  2. DOC turrets: is a specific designation for red wines produced in the Torrette area, north of Aosta. These wines are mainly made with Petite Rouge and Fumin grapes.

  3. Enfer d'Arvier DOC: is a specific denomination for red wines produced in the Arvier area, south of Aosta. These wines are mainly made with Petite Rouge and Gamay grapes.

  4. Nus Malvoisie DOC: is a specific denomination for white wines produced in the Nus area, east of Aosta. These wines are mainly made with Malvoisie grapes.

  5. Donnas DOC: is a specific designation for red wines produced in the Donnas area, north-east of Aosta. These wines are mainly made with Nebbiolo grapes.

These are just a few examples of the Aosta Valley wine appellations, but the region has many other interesting wine productions to discover.

Map

What are the most important native vines of the Aosta Valley?

Petit Rouge, Fumin and Prié Blanc are the most representative native grape varieties of the region.

What is the difference between PDO and PGI?

The DOP guarantees the origin and quality of the wines produced in a specific geographical area, while the IGP indicates a wider geographical origin and greater flexibility in the choice of vines and production methods.

What are some of the best-known red and white wines of the Aosta Valley?

Among the red wines, Torrette, Donnas and Chambave Rosso are highly appreciated. As for white wines, Blanc de Morgex, Petite Arvine and Chambave Bianco are among the best known.

What is meant by heroic viticulture?

Heroic viticulture refers to the cultivation of vines in extreme and difficult conditions, such as rough and steep terrain, which require great commitment and dedication on the part of the winemakers.

Is it possible to visit the cellars and taste the wines of the Aosta Valley?

Yes, many wineries offer guided tours and tastings for visitors interested in discovering the wines and producers of the region. It is advisable to contact the cellars directly to organize the visit and enjoy an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Aosta Valley.

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