Veneto: Central/Eastern Appellations Flashcards

1
Q

Name the major wine districts of Central Veneto.

A
  1. Gambellara
  2. Monti Lessini
  3. Breganze
  4. Colli Berici
  5. Colli Euganei
  6. Bagnoli
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2
Q

Where is Gambellara located?

A

The Gambellara zone of production abuts Soave’s eastern border and can be seen as a virtual eastward continuation of the Soave district. However, Gambellara lies completely within he province of Vicenza. It surrounds the town of Gambellara and a few other nearby villages.

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3
Q

What style of wine is produced in Gambellara?

A

White-only, Garganega-based DOC wines.
Gambellara can be considered a twin sister district of Soave.

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4
Q

What is the climate in Gambellara?

A

Mild, semi-continental; very similar to the conditions found in Soave.

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5
Q

What are the soil types in Gambellara?

A

Volcanic basalt soils dominate Gambellara; the same as those found in the eastern part of Soave.

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6
Q

Where in Gambellara are vineyards planted?

A

The winegrowing area comprises mostly hills (corresponding to the historic classico zone).

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7
Q

How does Gambellara compare to Soave?

A
  • The total production of Gambellara is considerably smaller.
  • Wines are more consistent because the soil is homogenous (all volconic basalt).
  • Fewer producers.
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8
Q

Name the 2 appellations in Gambellara.

A
  1. Gambellara DOC
  2. Recioto di Gambellara DOCG
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9
Q

What varietals are used to produce Gambellara DOC wines?

A

Dry white wine made from:
* min. 80% Garganega
* optional blending partners: Trebbiano di Soave, Chardonnay, & Pinot Bianco

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10
Q

What are the characteristics of Gambellara DOC wines?

A

Gambellara wines consistently show Garganega’s typical profile; bright acidity with floral aromas and strong notes of citrus and almond.
Some of these wines represent the purest expression of the Garganega grape.

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11
Q

What styles of wine does Gambellara DOC produce?

A
  • superiore
  • classico
  • spumante
  • passito

Respective production standards must be met.

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12
Q

Which wine district produces the only Vin Santo crafted within Veneto?

A

Gambellara DOC.
The very rare Gambellara Classico Vin Santo is a sweet and rich passito with very long aging potential.
It is only made in the best years from grapes that have undergone extensive appassimento and are pressed during the Roman Catholic Holy Week which falls sometime in March and/or April.

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13
Q

What is Recioto di Gambellara?

A

A sweet passito wine made from 100% Garganega grown only in the classico area.

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14
Q

How are Recioto di Gambellara wines traditionally made?

A

Grape clusters undergo appassimento by hanging to dry on the vertical twines of the picai. During this process, the grapes are often affected by noble rot.

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15
Q

What is picai?

A

The picai is the traditional method of air-drying grapes in Gambellara.
The clusters are carefully tied with thin twine and hung from roof rafters or other vertical support structures.
Though laborious, this system produces a greater and more efficient degree of evaporation due to the role of gravity and the increased ventilation around the grapes

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16
Q

What style of wine can Recioto di Gambellara be produced in other than as a still wine?

A

Spumante version can be made.
However, it cannot carry the classico designation.

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17
Q

Where is Monti Lessini located?

A

This zone of production lies between the very eastern foothills of the Monti Lessini range and the city of Vicenza. The small western tip of this appellation lies within the province of Verona.

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18
Q

What varietal is the Monti Lessini district known for?

A

Durella, an indigenous white grape notoriously high in acid. It is used to craft steely, mineral wines that are usually sparkling.

In the past, much of the wine was exported to Germany to be used as the base wine for German sparkling wine (Sekt).

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19
Q

How is the district of Monti Lessini topographically shaped?

A

By a series of ridges and valleys running northwest to southeast.

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20
Q

What are the soil types in Monti Lessini?

A

Predominantly volcanic.

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21
Q

Where in Monti Lessini are vineyards planted?

A

Exclusively on hillsides in order to benefit from cooler temperatures and wider diurnal temperature swings.

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22
Q

Name the 2 DOCs within the Monti Lessini district.

A
  1. Lessini Durello (or Durello Lessini) DOC
  2. Monti Lessini DOC
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23
Q

What style of wine is produced by Lessini Durello DOC?

A

An expressive sparkling white wine with a min. of 85% Durella.
There are 2 versions:
1. spumante: made via the tank-method
2. spumante riserva: made by the traditional method
* min. 36 months sur-lie aging

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24
Q

What style of wine is produced by Monti Lessini DOC?

A

A range of wines fall under this DOC:
* single-varietal Durella (labeled Monti Lessini Durello DOC)
* Chardonnay-based blend
* varietal Pinot Nero
* passito version of Durello

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25
Q

What wine is Monti Lessini’s claim to fame?

A

Sparkling wines made from Durella (Lessini Durello DOC).

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26
Q

Which appellation in Veneto has gained considerable recognition for its wines thanks to the efforts and achievements of its leading producer, Maculan?

A

Berganze DOC

Previously, this appellation long remained in the shadow of the fame of its neighboring appellations.

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27
Q

Where is Breganze located?

A

Breganze lies in the foothills of the elevated Asiago plateau between the Brenta River and city of Vicenza in Veneto.
The town of Breganze is situated right in the center of the appellation.

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28
Q

How is the vineyard area of Berganze divided?

A

Between the northern hills and the southern plain.

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29
Q

What are the soil types in Berganze DOC?

A

Northern hills: volcanic basalt soils
Southern plains: gravel

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30
Q

What is the climate in Berganze?

A

Mild, semi-continental

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31
Q

What topographical feature contributes to the climate of Berganze?

A

The area is well-protected from the cold northern winds by the Asiago plateau.

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32
Q

What style of wines are produced in Berganze DOC?

A

A wide range of single-varietal wines ranging from native to international grapes.

Blends include:
* a bianco based on Tai
* a rosso based on Merlot and a Cabernet blend (based on Cabernet Franc/Sauvignon & Carmenere)

Conditions are ideal for the production of well-structured reds. Berganze is well-known for the production of high-quality Bordeaux blends and varietals.

Passito wine

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33
Q

What varietals are grown in Berganze DOC?

A

Native:
1. Tai (Friulano)
2. Vespaiola
3. Marzemino

International:
1. Cabernet Sauvignon
2. Merlot
3. Pinot Nero
4. Chardonnay
5. Sauvignon Blanc
6. Pinot Grigio
7. Pinot Bianco

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34
Q

Berganze reds can be released as riserva. What is the aging requirement?

A

min. 2 years aging.

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35
Q

What is Torcolato?

A

A renowned sweet passito wine made from 100% Vespaiola.

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36
Q

How is Torcolato produced?

A

The appassimento is done either by:
* placing the grapes in a single layer on mats or
* hanging strings of grape clusters from the roof rafters.

During this process the grapes are affected by noble rot.

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37
Q

What are the requirements of Torcolato wines?

A

The grapes must be pressed within the month of February following harvest and the wine cannot be released before December 31 following the vintage.

Torcolato riserva must be aged for a min. 2 years.

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38
Q

What is the meaning behind the Torcolato name?

A

The name Torcolato derives from ‘torcolare’, a word in the local dialect that refers to the technique whereby grape clusters are bound together by twisting two pieces of twine. These strings of grapes are then suspended from the rafters to dry, in the same manner as in the picai method.

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39
Q

What are the characteristics of Torcolato wines?

A

Opulent and very complex with aromas of orange blossom, honey and tropical fruit. A pronounced acidity balances the wine’s richness and sweetness.

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40
Q

What are the characteristics of the dry Vespaiolo produced out of Berganze DOC?

A

An interesting light-bodied wine that offers an attractive lemon-almond character and is hallmarked by high acidity.

It is also produced in a spumante version.

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41
Q

Where is Colli Berici DOC located?

A

This appellation covers a group of hills by the same name that rise within the heart of Veneto. It lies just south of Vicenza between the Soave district and Padova. These hills emerge unusually isolated in the middle of Vicenza’s alluvial plain.

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42
Q

What are the soil types in Colli Berici DOC?

A

The hills are mainly composed of limestone of marine origin, the result of the slow deposition of layers of mud, sand and shells at the bottom of an ancient sea. The DOC is surround by an alluvial plain.

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43
Q

What styles of wines are produced in Colli Berici DOC?

A

Single-varietals and bianco/rosso blends from international and native grapes such as:
* Merlot
* Cabernet Sauvignon
* Carmenere
* Garganega
* Marzemino

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44
Q

What is considered to be the most interesting wine produced within the Colli Berici DOC?

A

The varietal Tai Rosso (Cannonau), a red grape considered to be traditional to this area and is attracting more and more interest among local producers.

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45
Q

Which sub-zone in Colli Berici produces the best expression of the Tai Rosso grape?

A

Barbarano (Colli Berici Barbarano DOC), a small area in the center of the Colli Berici DOC aroundthe town of Barbarano.

The wines must be 100% Tai Rosso.

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46
Q

What are the characteristics of Colli Berici Barbarano DOC wines?

A

They display a ripe, raspberry jam character with a hint of spice.

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47
Q

Where is Colli Euganei located?

A

This appellation lies in the center of Veneto southwest of Padova and southeast of the Colli Berici DOC. The entire DOC lies within the province of Padova.

Just like th Colli Berici, this series of hills rises as an isolated range in Veneto’s central plain.

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48
Q

How old is viticulture in Colli Euganei?

A

The charming and hilly area of Colli Euganei has an ancient viticultural tradition pre-dating the Romans.
The indigenous peoples were always ahead of their time.

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49
Q

When did Colli Euganei introduce Cabernet and Merlot into their vineyards?

A

Back in the 19th century. Producers in Colli Euganei were among the fist in Veneto to introduce these international varieties.

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50
Q

What are the soil types in Colli Euganei?

A

The volcanic origin of this area is clearly noticeable in the conical shape of its hills.
The soils are decomposed volcanic rock (basalt, tuff and rhyolite), as well as limestone and marl.
They are well-drained and rich in minerals.

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51
Q

What topographical features influence the climate of Colli Euganei?

A

The hills are close enough to the sea to receive mild influence from the Adriatic, so climatic conditions are mild.
Elevations provide a significant diurnal temperature swing.

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52
Q

Where are vineyards located in Colli Euganei?

A

All vineyards are located on hillsides.

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53
Q

Name the 2 appellations of Colli Euganei.

A
  1. Colli Euganei DOC
  2. Colli Euganei Fior d’Arancio (or Fior d’Arncio Colli Euganei) DOCG

Both cover exactly the same geographical area, but Colli Euganei Fior d’Arancio DOCG employs a single grape variety (Moscato Giallo).

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54
Q

What styles of wine are produced in Colli Euganei DOC?

A

A wide range of wines with a diversity of styles.
* native & international varieties are grown
* Bordeaux blends can be quite good

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55
Q

What is Serprino?

A

The local name for the Glera grape in Colli Euganei which is used to produce spumante and frizzante wines that are labeld as Serprino

The locals believe this grape originated here.

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56
Q

What is the variety, local to Colli Euganei, that is not grown anywhere else?

A

Pinella

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57
Q

What style of wine does Pinella produce under Colli Euganei DOC?

A

Soft frizzante wines.

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58
Q

What styles of wine are produced under Colli Euganei Fior d’Arancio DOCG?

A

Wines from the rare Moscato Giallo in a range of styles:
* from dry to sweet
* intense and concentrated passito (most common)
* spumante

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59
Q

What are the characteristics of Colli Euganei Fior d’Arancio DOCG wines

A

It has pronounced aromas of flowers and citrus.

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60
Q

What is the Vini Vulcanici?

A

The Volcanic Wines Association, which was founded in 2012. It pulled together Italy’s most important ‘volcanic’ DOCs with the intention of promoting them and their unique terroirs.

The DOC members are:
* Soave
* Gambellara
* Colli Euganei
* Lessini Durello
* Etna
* Campi Flegrei
* Orvieto
* Montefiascone
* Vesuvio
* Vulture
* Bianco di Pitigliano

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61
Q

Where is Bagnoli located?

A

The wine district lies on the gravelly alluvial plains created by the Adige and Brenta rivers. It is located just to the south of Padova between Colli Euganei and the Lagoon of Venice in the region of Veneto.

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62
Q

How long has wine production been a tradition in Bagnoli?

A

The area surrounding the village of Bagnoli di Sopra has a long tradition of wine production. The wines of Bagnoli were first mentioned in documents that referred to the viticultural importance of this small district in 954AD.

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63
Q

What is the climate in Bagnoli?

A

Continental; typical of the Padana Plain.

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64
Q

What topographical feature influences the climate in Bagnoli?

A

The proximity to the Adriatic Sea moderates the climate here.

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65
Q

What are the soil types in Bagnoli?

A

Gravelly alluvial plains

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66
Q

Name the 2 appellations in Bagnoli.

A
  1. Bagnoli Friularo (or Friularo di Bagnoli) DOCG
  2. Bagnoli (or Bagnoli di Sopra) DOC

Both cover exactly the same geographical areas.

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67
Q

What style of wines are produced in Bagnoli Friularo DOCG?

A

This appellation is exclusively dedicated to the production of red wines made from the traditional Friularo grape (Raboso Piave).

68
Q

What are the requirements for Bagnoli Friularo DOCG wines?

A
  • min. 90% Friularo
  • max. 50% of the grapes can undergo appassimento

Classico:
* can only be produced from grapes grown in the area surrounding the town of Bagnoli di Sopra
* may be vinified in dry, vendemmia tardiva and passito styles.

The dry style also has a riserva option.

69
Q

What styles of wine are produced under Bagnoli DOC?

A

Several wine styles and grape varieties, including international varieties such as:
* Chardonnay
* Merlot

Plus, indigenous grapes such as:
* Cavrara
* Corbina (Covina)
* Turchetta
* Marzemina Bianco

All of these grapes can be produced as varietal wines in a still, dry style.

The Bagnoli di Sopra spumante is produced from Raboso Piave and comes in both:
* bianco
* rosato

Some passito is also made.

70
Q

Name the minor appellations of Central Veneto.

A
  1. Arcole DOC
  2. Merlara DOC
  3. Riviera del Brenta DOC
  4. Corti Benedettine del Padovano DOC
  5. Vicenza DOC
71
Q

Where is the Arcole DOC located?

A

The large appellation extends from southeast Verona to the Colli Berici. The vineyards lie on the sandy-loamy alluvial plain formed by the Adige River.

72
Q

What are the wines of Arcole DOC usually called?

A

Vini di sabbia (wines of sand); due to the high sand content of the soil.

73
Q

What is the most distinctive wine produced in Arcole DOC?

A

Arcole Nero; made from at least 50% Merlot that has undergone a min. 30-day appassimento.

74
Q

Where is the Merlara DOC located?

A

This appellation is largely located within the province of Padova, on the northern bank of the Adige River around the town of Merlara in Veneto.

75
Q

What are the soil types in Merlara DOC?

A

Fertile alluvial soils; which produce a wide range of easy-drinking wines.

76
Q

What style of wine is produced in Merlara DOC?

A

A wide range of easy-drinking wines from international and Italian varieties.

77
Q

Which variety grown in Merlara DOC is surprising and rarely seen in Veneto?

A

Malvasia Istriana; Merlara DOC produces a single varietal with this grape.

78
Q

Where is the Riviera del Brenta DOC located?

A

This appellation lies between Padova and Venice, along the Brenta River in Veneto.
This fertile alluvial plain, formed by the Brenta River, traverses a landscape studded with numerous 18th century Venetian villas.

79
Q

What styles of wine are produced in Riviera del Brenta DOC?

A

A wide range of wines and styles.
Local grapes:
* Raboso Piave (performs especially well here)
* Raboso Veronese
* Tai
* Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso

International grapes:
* Pinot Grigio
* Chardonnay
* Merlot
* Cabernet Franc
* Cabernet Sauvignon

80
Q

Where is the Corti Benedettine del Padovano DOC lcoated?

A

It is situated just south of Padova, tucked between the Colli Euganei DOC, the Rivierea del Brenta DOC and the Adige River in Veneto. The area surrounds and includes the appellations of Bagnoli.
This appellation lies on alluvial plains formed by the adige and Brenta rivers.

81
Q

What style of wines are produced in Corti Benedettine del Padovano DOC?

A

A wide range of wine styles from international and Italian grapes are produced.

Of special note are the standout wines crated from Moscato Giallo.

82
Q

What areas does the Vicenza DOC cover?

A

This catch-all DOC covers a large portion of the province of Vicenza.

83
Q

What styles of wines are produced under Vicenza DOC?

A

A very wide range of wines and wine styles are produced under this umbrella from both international and native grapes.

84
Q

Name the appellations of the Venetian Prealps Foothills of Eastern Veneto.

A
  1. Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG
  2. Colli di Conegliano DOCG
  3. Asolo ~ Prosecco DOCG
  4. Montello (or Montello Rosso) DOCG
  5. Montello - Colli Asolani DOC

These appellations lie on a series of hills flanking the foothills of the Venetian Prealps in the northeast part of Veneto.

85
Q

Which appellation represents one of Italy’s most important quality sparkling wine districts and is the historic heartland of Prosecco wine production?

A

Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG

Its sparkling wine tradition dates back to the 2nd half of the 19th century.

86
Q

Who is Antonio Carpene?

A

One of the founders of the Conegliano School of Enology in 1876. He applied and refined the production methods for the production of sparkling Prosecco. The birth of modern Prosecco is attributed to his effort and creative genius.

87
Q

Where is the Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG located?

A

It lies within the Treviso province on a series of hills below the foothills of the Belluno Prealps, to the north of the Piave River and its plain. The appellation stretches from the town of Valdobbiadene to the town of Conegliano, which is close to the Friuli Venezia Giulia border.

*The appellation covers approx. 20,000ac/8,000ha. under vine (2019)

*This winegrowing region has been designated a Unesco World Heritage Site

*Errata 2021

88
Q

How many communes are there in Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG?

A

15 communes

89
Q

What is the climate in Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG?

A

Moderately continental

90
Q

What do the seasons in Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG bring?

A
  • Cold summers
  • Warm & dry summers
  • Good air circulation year-round
91
Q

What topographical features contribute to the climate and growing conditions in Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG?

A

The Alps shield the area from cold north winds, yet provide enough cool air (descending from their lofty peaks) to provide diurnal temperature swings that preserve grape acidity, aiding in the development of complex aromatics during the growing season.

Warm breezes blowing off of the Lagoon of Venice, 25 miles away, serve to mitigate winter temperatures.

The hills run east-west, providing ideal southern aspects.

92
Q

What are the soil types in Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG?

A

Diverse, but predominantly comprise a mix of sandstone, marl and clay, alternated with alluvial and glacial moraine deposits.

93
Q

What elevation are the vineyards of Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG planted at and how steep can the slopes get?

A

Between 160-1,600ft/50-500m elevation.
The steepest slopes (usually the oldest vineyards) can reach up to a 70% gradient.

94
Q

How do wines produced in eastern Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG compare with wines from the western area?

A

Conegliano, located in the east, has low, gentle hills. This area is impacted by the Adriatic Sea and is therefore warmer. It tends to produce softer wines with riper fruit character.

Valdobbiadene, located closer to the mountains in the west, has higher hills and is more affected by the cool Alpine Air. It is further away from the moderating influences of the Adriatic Sea. This results in a cooler meso-climate which produces wines that are higher in acidity.

95
Q

What vine-training system(s) is used in Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG?

A

Sylvoz is the most common, applied on the more gentle hills.
The traditional Cappuccina (variation of Guyot) is used on the steepest slopes.

96
Q

What styles of wine are produced in Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG?

A

Style:
* spumante (principal category)
* frizzante (semi-sparkling)
* still

Sweetness:
* Extra Dry (with a little residual sugar; most common)
* Brut (less sugar; 2nd-most popular)
* Dry (sweeter style; least common)

97
Q

What varietals are used in the production of Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG?

A
  • min. 85% Glera (previously called Prosecco)
  • max. 15% local varieties:
    1. Verdiso
    2. Bianchetta Trevigiana
    3. Perera
    4. Glera Lunga

Most wines are 100% Glera.

98
Q

What are the requirements of Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG?

A

The “Superiore” designation can only be used for the sparkling versions.

They can be labeled with both towns or simply carry one of the 2 town names:
* Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG
* Conegliano Prosecco Superiore DOCG
* Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG

Superiore wines can also be produced in the following styles:
* Extra Brut (this level is superiore only)*
* Brut
* Extra Dry
* Dry

*Errata 2021

99
Q

How is the spumante version of Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG produced?

A

Usually by the tank (Martinotti) method, considered the most suitable for preserving the freshness and the delicate, floral and fruity aromas of Glera.

In recent years, some producers have also experimented with the traditional method, producing Prosecco via a second fermentation.

The wines can be produced as non-vintage or vintage.

100
Q

What is “rifermentazione naturale in bottiglia”?

A

Ancestral method; this was the traditional style in which Prosecco was produced before the introduction of the tank method.

The fermentation extended well into winter, due to the late-ripening nature of the Glera grape and the late autumn harvests, resulting in unfinished fermentation when cold weather arrived. The partially fermented wines were sealed in bottles/casks. With the arrival of spring warmth, fermentation resuscitated in the sealed bottle/cask, creating CO2 and often leaving some residual sugar.
This practice produces a very distinctive frizzante wine that is slightly cloudy due to lees still contained within the bottle. These wines are locally known as “Prosecco col fondo”, meaning Prosecco with deposit.

101
Q

What is Sui lieviti?

A

Sui lieviti (on the lees) is a new official category of sparkling wine in Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG introduced by the disciplinare to regulate production via the ancestral method (rifermentazione naturale in bottiglia).
This historical method produces a bone-dry, slightly cloudy wine (lees still in bottle) that is less fruity, with notes of bread and lees.
Grapes must be hand-harvested.
The wines can only be produced in the Brut Nature style (no dosage allowed).
Sui Lieviti must appear on the label (e.g. Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore Sui Lieviti).

102
Q

What are the characteristics of Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG wines?

A

Lightly aromatic with floral aromas and inviting fruity notes of pear, apple and stone fruit. The palate is round and enhanced by a soft mousse.

103
Q

Historically, where have the finest spumante wines in Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG considered to be produced?

A

Cartizze; the appellation’s only official sub-zone.
Cartizze lies to the east of Valdobbiadene between the hamlets of Saccol, San Pietro di Barbozza and Santo Stefano.
It covers roughly 264ac/107ha on south-facing hills that are among the highest and steepest in the district. They form a natural amphitheater. The mild growing conditions, physical locations of the hills, elevation, aspect, and soils created a unique and ideal meso-climate where Glera can ripen fully while developing great aromatic complexity and maintaining acidity.

104
Q

How are the vineyards of Cartizze harvested?

A

Hand-harvest due to steep inclines.

105
Q

How do the requirements of Cartizze differ from the rest of Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG?

A

The vineyards have the lowest max. yields.
The wines have the highest min. alcohol level.
Can only be made in a spumante version.

However, similarly to the rest of the appellation, they can be either non-vintage or vintage-dated.

106
Q

How are the wines of Cartizze labeled?

A

Valdobbiadene Superiore di Cartizze DOCG (or less frequently: Conegliano Valdobbiadene Superiore di Cartizze DOCG)

Traditionally crafted with some residual sugar and labeled as Dry.
Some producers have begun releasing Cartizze Brut; this drier version is gaining fans.

107
Q

What are the characteristics of Proseccos produced in the Cartizze sub-zone?

A

These offer the best expressions of Prosecco:
Intense and fragrant aromas of white flowers, wisteria, rose, pear, apple, citrus and stone fruit coupled with an almond finish. The wines show finesse and concentration.

108
Q

What does the term “rive” mean?

A

In local dialect (Conegliano Valdobbiadene), literally translates to “vineyards on steep slopes.”

109
Q

What does the term “rive” indicate when used on the wine labels of Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG?

A

The word “rive” precedes the specific name of the village or hamlet on the label (e.g. Rive di Colbertaldo) and indicates where the grapes were grown.
This is done to highlight the characteristics of those specific areas.
Wines labeled as “rive” are vintage-dated and hail from vineyards with lower maximum yields and hand-picked fruit.
As of 2009, there are 43 more rives (restricted zones of production) for Conegliano Valdobbiadene spumante

110
Q

What appellations was Prosecco produced under prior to 2009?

A
  • Prosecco di Conegliano Valdobbiadene DOC
  • Prosecco Colli Trevigiani IGT
  • Prosecco Marca Trevigiana IGT
  • Prosecco del Veneto IGT
  • Prosecco Alto Livenza IGT
  • Prosecco delle Venezie IGT

These appellations covered areas of Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia.

111
Q

What are the 2 new quality wine designations that were introduced in 2009 for Prosecco?

A
  • Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG (elevated from DOC)
  • Prosecco DOC (the various IGTs were united and elevated to a single appellation)
112
Q

Why was the name of the Prosecco grape changed to Glera?

A

The name had to be changed in order to identify Prosecco as a designation of origin, otherwise producers from other regions could grow/make Prosecco wines.

113
Q

Why was the decision to rename the Prosecco grape controversial?

A

Glera was a generic name used in Friuli Venezia Giulia to refer to several distinct varieties. It was often used as a synonym for Prosecco Lungo, the other main (but distinct) variety of Prosecco/Glera.

114
Q

Which area, not previously included in the Prosecco IGTs, was included in the amended boundaries for the new Prosecco DOC by they EU?

A

The town of Prosecco, which is located in the province of Trieste in Friuli Venezia Giulia.
Supposedly, this is were the grape originated.

115
Q

Which province accounts for the majority of Prosecco production?

A

Veneto’s province of of Treviso accounts for 90% of all Prosecco production.

116
Q

How are Glera wines produced outside of the protected Prosecco designations labeled?

A

As IGT using the varietal name Glera on the label.

The Prosecco name can no longer appear on IGT labels or on any label outside of Italy.

117
Q

Where is Colli di Conegliano located?

A

This DOCG covers almost the same geographical area as the Conegliano Valdobbiadene DOCG, except it stretches a little further north and excludes the area immediately surrounding Valdobbiadene.

118
Q

What styles of wine are produced in Colli di Conegliano?

A

Two blends:
* one bianco
* one rosso

Two specialties specific to two of its sub-zones.

119
Q

What varietals are used to produce the Colli di Conegliano DOCG?

A

This bianco blend is made principally from:
* Manzoni Bianco (dominant grape)
* Pinot Bianco
* Chardonnay

120
Q

What varietal are used in the production of Colli di Conegliano Rosso DOCG?

A

This rosso blend is made from:
* Marzemino
* Merlot
* Cabernet Sauvignon
* Cabernet Franc

Note: unlike the white blend, the red blend must carry the word “rosso” in the designation and on the label.

121
Q

What are the aging requirements of Colli di Conegliano Rosso DOCG?

A
  • min. 2 years aging
  • min. 6 months in wood

Riserva:
* min. 3 years aging
* min. 12 months in wood

122
Q

Name the 2 sub-zones of Colli di Conegliano DOCG that produce passito wines.

A
  1. Refrontolo
  2. Torchiato di Fregona
123
Q

What types of wines are produced in the Refrontolo sub-zone?

A

A red wine made from air-dried Marzemino grapes grown around the town of Refrontolo in the central part of the appellation.

There is a passito version that is considered the local specialty.

124
Q

Where is the Torchiato di Fregona sub-zone located?

A

In the northeastern tip of Colli di Conegliano around the village of Fregona within the northeastern region of Veneto.

125
Q

What type of wine is produced in the Torchiato di Fregona sub-zone?

A

A very rare white passito made from a blend of:
* Glera
* Boschera
* Verdiso

The grapes must go through a minimum 150 days of appassimento.

126
Q

Where does the Torchiato di Fregona sub-zone get its name?

A

The name Torchiato is taken from the ancient practice of using a traditional press, or torchio, to press the grapes.

127
Q

Where is the Asolo - Montello District located?

A

At the foothills of the Venetian Prealps between the Brenta and the Piave rivers within the province of Treviso.
This winegrowing district is characterized by two bands of hills:
* Colli Asolani
* Montello

All of the vineyards are planted on the slopes of these hills.

128
Q

Which appellations are located in the Asolo - Montello District?

A
  1. Asolo ~ Prosecco DOCG
  2. Montello (or Montello Rosso) DOCG
  3. Montello - Colli Asolani DOC
129
Q

Where is the Asolo-Prosecco DOCG located?

A

This appellation surrounds the town of Asolo at the base of the foothills of the Venetian Prealps between the Brenta and Piave rivers within the province of Treviso.

130
Q

What is the climate in Asolo-Prosecco DOCG?

A

Slightly warmer and damper than in Conegliano Valdobbiadene.

131
Q

What styles of wine are produced in Asolo-Prosecco DOCG?

A

The Glera-based wines are mainly produced via tank method in spumante version. They are labeled Asolo-Prosecco Superiore DOCG.

Other styles include:
* still
* frizzante

The total production is small compared to the Conegliano Valdobbiadene DOCG.

132
Q

What type of wine is produced in Montello DOCG?

A

Bordeaux-style red wine based on:
* Cabernet Sauvignon (40-70%)
* Merlot
* Cabernet Franc
* Carmenere

133
Q

How do the soils contribute to the wine in Montello DOCG?

A

The rich clay slopes produce distinctive and structured wines with aging potential.

134
Q

What are the aging requirements of Montello DOCG?

A
  • min. 18 months aging
  • 9 months in oak

Superiore version must be aged longer.

135
Q

What styles of wine are produced under Montello-Colli Asolani DOC?

A

A broad range of wines and styles.
* varietals from international grapes(such as Cabernet Sauvignon & Merlot)
* varietals from native grapes (such as Manzoni Bianco & Recantina)
* Bordeaux blends based on Cabernet Sauvignon produced in Venegazzu (a small sub-zone located in the southeastern portion of the DOC; renowned for these wines)

136
Q

Where is the Eastern Plains District located?

A

This district encompasses two alluvial plains created by the Piave, Livenza and Tagliamento rivers, which run parallel to each other while flowing into the Adriatic Sea.

137
Q

Name the appellations of the Eastern Plains District in Veneto.

A
  1. Piave DOC
  2. Piave Malanotte DOCG
  3. Lison-Pramaggiore DOC
  4. Lison DOCG
  5. Venezia DOC
  6. Vigneti della Serenissima (Serenessima) DOC
138
Q

What varietals are planted in the Eastern Plains District?

A

The main native grapes:
* Raboso Piave
* Verduzzo Trevigiano
* Tai

Traditional varieties (grown here for almost two centuries):
* Merlot
* Cabernet Sauvignon
* Cabernet Franc

139
Q

Where is Piave DOC located?

A

This large appellation lies within the provinces of Treviso and Venice. The vineyards are found on both sides of the Piave River which flows from the hills of Conegliano and Montello into the sea. Its eastern border is flanked by the southern bank of the Livenza River.

140
Q

What is the climate of Piave DOC?

A

Maritime

141
Q

What topographical features influence the climate in Piave DOC?

A

It is positively influenced by both the Adriatic Sea and northeastely winds.
The northern section, located on higher plains, is warm but receives the cooling influence of the Venetian Prealps and experiences significant diurnal temperature swings.
The southern half is flatter, warmer and more strongly affected by the Adriatic Sea.

142
Q

What are the soil types in Piave DOC?

A

The soils comprise alluvial gravels in the north and a mix of sand, clay and loam in the south, closer to the coast.

143
Q

What styles of wine are produced in Piave DOC?

A

This appellation produces a large quantity of varietal wine and is a major producer of Merlot.
* Piave Rosso (blended red) must be at least 50% Merlot.
* Cabernet blend (made from Cabernet Sauvignon/Franc)
* Raboso Piave (the most distinctive wine crafted within this DOC; made from the native variety); labeled Raboso del Piave DOC

Among the whites, the most interesting are:
* Tai
* Verduzzo (Verduzzo Trevigiano)
* Varietal Chardonnay
* varietal Pinot Grigio

Raboso and Verduzzo can also be made in rare passito versions.

144
Q

What are the characteristics of Rabosso del Piave DOC?

A

Deep in colour, very tannic, high in acid and need bottle age to soften and develop their complex flavour and aroma profile.

DOC rules require at least 2 years aging for Raboso.

145
Q

Which appellations have a significant quantity of Raboso planted?

A
  1. Piave DOC
  2. Bagnoli DOC
146
Q

What area does Piave Malanotte DOCG cover?

A

The same exact area as the Piave DOC.

147
Q

Why was Piave Malanotte elevated to DOCG status?

A

Because of local tradition and the wine’s distinct style.
The Piave Malanotte DOCG was previously a specific designation under the Piave DOC.

148
Q

What varietals are used to produce Piave Malanotte DOCG?

A
  • min. 70% Raboso Piave
  • max. 30% Raboso Veronese
  • 15-30% of the grapes must be air-dried
  • cannot be vinified earlier than December 8 following the harvest, according to local tradition.
149
Q

How do the wines of Piave Malanotte DOCG benefit from the appassimento process?

A

The appassimento helps to soften the grape’s harsh tannins and tame Raboso’s acidity; even when used for a small proportion of the grapes.
In the best examples, the strong tannins and bracing acidity are balanced by extract, alcohol and oak.

150
Q

Where is Lison-Pramaggiore DOC located?

A

This inter-regional DOC is situated in the easternmost part of Veneto on the Friuli Venezia Giulia border. The majority of the DOC lies in Veneto within the provinces of Venice and Treviso. Only a small portion of the DOC is in Friuli Venezia Giulia.
The vineyards are located between the Livenza and Tagliamento rivers, and the DOC extends inland from the Adriatic coast.

151
Q

What is the climate of Lison-Pramaggiore DOC?

A

This flat area has a warm, maritime climate and is completely exposed to winds and air currents. In most cases, this proves beneficial. Sea breezes head inland at night and reduce temperatures.

152
Q

What are the soil types in Lison-Pramaggiore DOC?

A

Alluvial and rich in minerals.
They are characterized by the presence of a thin, calcareous-clay layer (caranto) under a clay-based topsoil.

153
Q

What styles of wine are produced in Lison-Pramaggiore DOC?

A

A broad range of wines and styles are produced, but the focus is on varietal wines.
Traditional varieties include:
* Merlot
* Cabernet Sauvignon
* Cabernet Franc
* Friulian
* Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso
* Verduzzo (Verduzzo Trevigiano)
* Pinot Grigio
* Chardonnay

154
Q

Where is Lison DOCG located?

A

This inter-regional appellation shares the same zone of production as Lison-Pramaggiore (Veneto/Friuli Venezia Giulia).

155
Q

What type of wine is produced in Lison DOCG?

A

This appellation is a specific designation for Tai (Friulano).
The wines produced in the small historic production zone around the town of Lison are Tai-based (Friulano-based).

156
Q

What areas does the Venezia DOC cover?

A

This relatively new DOC covers the provinces of Venice and Treviso in their entirety.

157
Q

What styles of wine are produced under Venezia DOC?

A

Varietal wines made from international grapes:
* Merlot
* Cabernet Sauvignon
* Cabernet Franc
* Pinot Grigio
* Chardonnay

Rosato wines made from:
* Raboso

Frizzante/spumante wines based on:
* Verduzzo
* Glera

158
Q

What areas does the Vigneti della Serenissima DOC cover?

A

This recently created appellation is a large, catch-all DOC that includes only hillside vineyards within the provinces of:
* Belluno
* Treviso
* Padova
* Vicenza
* Verona

This DOC allows blending from an extensive area while still labeling the wines as DOC.

159
Q

What areas does the Prosecco DOC cover?

A

It includes the regions of Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia, with the majority of production concentrated in Veneto.
Nine provinces are allowed to make wine under this DOC:
1. Belluno
2. Gorizia
3. Padova
4. Pordenone
5. Treviso (wines made with grapes solely within Treviso are labeled: Prosecco Treviso DOC)
6. Trieste (wines made with grapes solely within Trieste are labeled: Prosecco Trieste DOC)
7. Udine
8. Venice
9. Vicenza

Overall, ther area exceed 60,000ac/24,000 ha.

160
Q

Which varietals are used in the production of Prosecco DOC wines?

A

Wines are Glera based with min. 85% and can be completmented with up to 15% from one or more other approved grapes including:
* Verdiso
* Bianchetta Trevigiana
* Perera
* Glera Lunga
* Chardonnay
* Pinot Bianco
* Pinot Grigio
* Pinot Nero

161
Q

What styles are produced in Prosecco DOC?

A

Almost the entire production is sparkling made by tank (Martinotti) method.

Wines can be:
* still
* frizzante (semi-sparkling)
* spumante (sparkling)

With varying levels of sweetness:
* Extra Dry (slightly sweet)
* Brut

162
Q

What are the characteristics of Prosecco DOC wines?

A

Light, refreshing and delicately floral with notes of pear, peach and melon.

163
Q

List the quality pyramid for Prosseco wine from top to bottom.

A
  1. CVP Superiore di Cartizze DOCG
  2. CVP Superiore Rive DOCG
  3. CVP Superiore DOCG & Asolo Prosecco Superiore DOCG
  4. Prosecco Treviso DOC & Prosecco Trieste DOC
  5. Prosecco DOC
164
Q

What areas does the Delle Venezie DOC cover?

A

This inter-regional DOC, introduced in 2016, covers:
* Veneto
* Friuli Venezia Giula
* Trentino

165
Q

What style of wine is created under Delle Venezie DOC?

A

This appellation specifically focuses on the production of varietal Pinot Grigio, labeled as Pinot Grigio delle Venezie DOC.
This wine is produced in:
* still
* frizzante
* spumante

The disciplinare also allows for a bianco style based on one or more grapes such as:
* Chardonnay
* Pinot Bianco
* Garganega
* (among others)

166
Q

What areas does the Trevenezie IGT cover?

A

This inter-regional IGT includes:
* Veneto
* all of Friuli Venezia Giulia
* part of Trentino

This is among the most important in Italy in terms of volume.

167
Q

What is the regional IGT of Veneto?

A

Veneto IGT

This is among the most commonly found on the international market.