Italy is famous for its wine regions, such as Tuscany, Piemonte, Sicily, and Alto Adige. However, there is a lesser-known but equally captivating wine region in Lombardy, located in northern Italy. Lombardy is renowned for its capital, Milan, which is considered Italy’s fashion and financial means. But be the trendsetter and pay attention because Lombardy is also home to a thriving agricultural region surrounding the city, producing excellent wines in Italy.
The wine regions of Oltrepo Pavese, Lugana Wines, and Valtenesi, among others, are located within Lombardy and offer a unique style of Italian wines that differ from the ones we are used to seeing. These regions have a rich history of winemaking, and their wines are made from local grape varieties that are not commonly found in other parts of Italy. When you taste the wines from these regions, you will be pleasantly surprised by their distinctive flavors and aromas, which reflect the terroir of Lombardy.
According to the Councillor for Agriculture, Nutrition, and Green Areas from Lombardy Regional Council, in 2024, there are 5 DOCG, 21 DOC, and 15 IGT appellations. These appellations certify within Italy that the wines production in specific regions meet certain quality standards.
All this great information surprised me during the Masterclass hosted during the Gambero Rosso Trebiccheri event in New York in February 2024. Even though I had worked closely with the regions of Lugana and Franciacorta, I didn’t realize that the whole northern-Italy state was home to other appellations rich in history and are uniting efforts to bring awareness to the region that has the potential to attract tourism and wine lovers attention worldwide.
Lombardy is a region in northern Italy that boasts some of the country’s finest wine regions, each unique. Nestled amidst the stunning natural beauty of Lombardy, these wine regions offer a delightful experience to wine lovers.
One such region is Franciacorta, known for its classic method of sparkling wines. The region’s rolling hills and mild climate are conducive to producing high-quality sparkling wines, which have gained worldwide recognition. Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Blanc are the grapes that can produce the sparkling wines of Franciacorta. Franciacorta has a delicate aroma and fine bubbles.
Another notable wine region in Lombardy is Valtellina. Valetellina is known for its steep-sloped terracing and the production of the Nebbiolo grape variety. Terracing is an ancient agricultural technique used to cultivate grapevines on the valley’s steep slopes. The region’s unique topography and climate produce Nebbiolo wines that are elegant, complex, and age-worthy.
The fertile Oltrepo Pavece in the Mantua district is another wine region in Lombardy that offers outstanding sustainability and biodiversity. The area produces various wines, ranging from red, white, and rosé to sparkling and dessert wines. The region’s terroir, combined with innovative winemaking techniques, has led to the production of distinct and flavorful wines.
Lastly, the shores of Lake Garda are home to Lugana wines, adding to Lombardy’s diverse wine scene. The region’s mild climate and unique soil composition create the perfect conditions for growing the Trebbiano di Lugana grape variety used to produce Lugana wines. These wines have crisp acidity, fruity aroma, and minerality.
In summary, Lombardy’s wine regions offer a diverse range of wines, each with its unique character. From the classic method, sparkling wines of Franciacorta to the Nebbiolo wines of Valtellina and the sustainable wines of Oltrepo Pavece, Lombardy’s wine regions are a must-visit for wine enthusiasts.
If you are a wine enthusiast, you should explore the wines of Lombardy and discover their unique character.
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