Central Italy Flashcards
(245 cards)
1
Q
Outline the climate of Tuscany.
A
Warm mediterranean.
Most of the rain falls in Autumn and winter. Some in the growing season.
Inland, summers can be hot and winters cold.
2
Q
What are the main climactic hazards experienced in Tuscany?
A
Occasional spring frost, hail and rain in the growing season.
Summer drought and prolonged high temperatures can be problems in some years.
3
Q
What are the six most planted grape varieties of Tuscany?
A
- Sangiovese (most planted by far)
- Merlot
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Trebbiano Toscano
- Vermentino
- Syrah
4
Q
How much of Italy’s total plantings does Sangiovese account for?
A
10% making it the most planted variety in the country
5
Q
In what sites does Sangiovese best grow in Tuscany?
A
- Sunny south and south-east facing slopes
- Best grapes are grown at 200-550m altitude for a long growing season.
- Prefers friable, shale and limestone soils with excellent drainage. Does fairly well on clay
6
Q
Outline the viticultural characteristics of Sangiovese.
A
- Early budding, late ripening
- Vigorous - needs careful canopy management to avoid shading
- Susceptible to botrytis (thin skins)
- Can produce high yields - producers need to decide whether they prefer quantity or quality
7
Q
How is Sangiovese typically planted in Tuscany?
A
The main types of training are cordons pruned to spurs or cane pruned with vertical shoot
positioning.
8
Q
What was the The Chianti Classico
2000 project?
A
The Chianti Classico 2000 project produced seven clones that have been widely planted. The aims were smaller berries, thicker skins and more-open bunches to produce wines with deeper colour, more flavour intensity and greater disease resistance.
All in aim of producing higher quality fruit over high yields.
9
Q
What pests and diseases are Sangiovese vines at risk to in Tuscany?
A
Esca
Wild boars
10
Q
Outline the viticultural characteristics of Trebbiano Toscano.
A
- Late budding white variety
- Vigorous and high yielding
- Susceptible to downey mildew and eutypa dieback
- Ripens well in sunshine and heat while retaining acidity
11
Q
What is Trebbiano Toscano referred to as in France?
A
Ugni Blanc
12
Q
What characteristics does Canaiolo Nero contribute to Sangiovese based blends?
A
It is said to promote the floral and red-berried character of Sangiovese.
13
Q
Canaiolo Nero is a variety used for blends in which Italian wine region?
A
Tuscany
Typically blended with Sangiovese
14
Q
Outline the TRADITIONAL winemaking methods for Sangiovese based wines in Tuscany.
A
Sangiovese used to be blended with white grape varieties.
Very long maceration times (30+ days) and long maturation in oak oak (3-4 years).
15
Q
What are the typical maceration times for Sangiovese based wines in Tuscany?
A
- 7-10 days for early-drinking
- 15-25 days for high tannin wines intended for ageing.
16
Q
How have trends in maturation in wood for Tuscan Sangiovese wines changed recently?
A
- Latter decades of the last century saw widespread use of new oak barriques.
- Since the beginning of the new century, producers have been moving towards older barrels, 500L tonneaux and the traditional large old oak casks.
- New aim is for fruit to be star, not new oak flavours.
17
Q
What are the seven Chianti DOCG subzones?
A
Rufina
Colli Fiorentini (Firenze)
Montespertoli
Montalbano
Colli Senesi
Colli Aretini
Colline Pisane
18
Q
Why are Chianti DOCG wines cheaper than wines with subzone or Chianti Classico DOCG?
A
- Moderately high yields
- Less intensive vineyard work (less hilly area)
- Short ageing requirements in stainless steel or large format oak
19
Q
When was Chianti upgraded to DOCG status?
A
1984
20
Q
In what year were white grape varieties banned for the production of Chianti Classico DOCG wines?
A
2005
21
Q
What are the main climactic influences on Chianti Rufina DOCG?
A
- Vineyards are planted at 350m altitude
- Cooling winds descend from a pass in the Appennines to the north
- Combined, these make Rufina the coolest subzone of Chianti.
22
Q
Name two significant producers of Chianti Rufina DOCG.
A
Selvapiana
Frescobaldi at Nipozzano
23
Q
What is the smallest Chianti subzone?
A
Rufina
24
Q
What is the largest Chianti subzone?
A
Chianti Colli Senesi DOCG
25
How does Chianti Colli Senesi's climate compare to the other subzones?
Generally warmer, producing more fuller bodied and richer wines.
26
What are the permitted varieties of Chianti Colli Senesi DOCG?
Difference with Chianti DOCG?
Requires 75-100% of Sangiovese (compared to Chianti DOCGs 70-100%)
Max. 10% cab sauv, cab franc, compared to Chianti's 15%
27
Describe the topography of Chianti Classico DOCG.
A hilly area between Florence and Siena, best wines coming from 200-500 altitude.
Cool nights lengthens the growing season promoting full ripeness and acidity.
28
Describe the soils of Chianti Classico DOCG.
Schistous, crumbly rock with clay and marl (known as galestro), calcareous soils with clay
(known as alberese), and sandstone and sandy soils (Macigno)
29
What is 'Galestro' in Chianti Classico DOCG?
Schistous, crumbly rock with clay and marl
Said to give more aromatic wines with the potential to age.
30
What is 'alberese' in Chianti Classico DOCG?
Calcareous soils with clay said to gives wines with more structure and body.
31
Name two significant producers of Chianti Classico DOCG?
Fontodi and Castello di Ama.
32
What is 'Macigno' in Chianti Classico DOCG?
Sandstone, sandy soils
33
When was the Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG category introduced?
2013
34
What are the additional requirements for Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG?
* Must be estate grown, or come from a single vineyard
* Min. 30 months ageing from Jan 1 year following harvest (no wood requirement).
* From 2021, wines must be min. 90% Sangiovese, no international grapes permitted.
* Producer may label with one of 11 UGAs if grapes are grown there.
35
What are Unità Geografiche Aggiuntive (UGA)
Additional geographical units, are either a municipality or a specified subzone.
In the case of Chianti Classico Gran Selezione, examples include the municipality of Radda and the specified subzone of Panzano.
36
Who was the first producer to bottle Brunello di Montalcino?
Biondi-Santi in 1865
Remained the only producer until the second world war.
37
Banfi is a wine company known for production in which Italian DOCG?
Brunello di Montalcino DOCG.
Originated as an importing company of the USA.
38
How many producers are there currently in Brunello di Montalcino DOCG?
250 over 2100ha of land under vine.
39
What are the main climactic influences on Brunello di Montalcino DOCG?
* Generally warmer and drier than Chianti
* Protected from rain by the Monte Amiata in the south; still enough rain for vines to thrive.
* Receives cooling winds from the mediterranean (40km away) at night.
40
Describe the topography of Brunello di Montalcino DOCG.
* Varying elevation (between 120-500m)
* Majority of area is hilly
* Soils are variable, with galestro soils found more in the north and alberese soils found in the south.
41
Name three significant producers of Brunello di Montalcino.
* Biondi-Santi
* Soldera
* Poggio di Sotto
42
What are the requirements for the Rosso di Montalcino DOC?
* 100% Sangiovese
* Can be single vineyard (vinga)
* Cannot be released until Sep 1 year following harvest
43
What benefit does the Rosso di Montalcino DOCG give to Brunello producers?
Allows Brunello producers to declassify their wines in very difficult vintages (eg. 2014).
44
Where is Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG?
South eastern Tuscany, between Montalcino and the border with Umbria.
45
Describe the topography and soil of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG.
Vineyards are planted on east and south-east facing slopes
Elevations between 250-600m (higher the vineyard=more aromatic bc longer growing season.)
Soils include heavy cool clay (fuller bodied wines) or sand (more aromatic wines)
46
Where is Morellino de Scansano DOCG?
Close to the coast of Southern Tuscany.
47
What are the cooling influences of Morellino de Scansano DOCG?
* Altitude (average 250m)
* Cooling winds from the sea at night
48
Name two producers of Morellino de Scansano DOCG.
Le Pupille and Morisfarms
49
Where is Bolgheri DOC located?
Tuscan coast - south of Florence, North of Siena.
50
Describe the climate of Bolgheri DOC.
Warm climate with cool nights due to proximity to the sea.
Winds from the sea helps reduce from fungal disease.
Rain is sufficient and well distributed throughout the year.
51
52
What is the average planting density of Bolgheri? The aim?
6000 vines per hectare (higher than traditional areas of Tuscany), enabling competition between vines to reduce yields and increase concentration
53
When was Bolgheri granted DOC status?
1983
54
What styles of wine are produced under the Bolgheri DOC?
Bianco, Rosato, Rosso, Rosso Superiore, varietal (Vermentino, Sauvignon)
55
What are the principal white grape varieties permitted for Bolgheri DOC?
Vermentino
Sauvignon Blanc
Viognier
+ max. 40% other Tuscan approved varieties
56
What are the principal red varieties permitted for Bolgheri DOC?
Up to 100% of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc
Up to 50% of Syrah and Sangiovese
+ max. 30% other Tuscan approved varieties.
57
Tenuta San Guido is a producer from which region?
Bolgheri DOC
58
Name the iconic wine from Tenuta San Giudo.
Sassicaia
59
Sassicaia is an iconic wine originally made by which producer? Region?
Tentua San Giudo
60
How much do international varieties account for in Bolgheri's total plantings?
80%
61
What grape variety dominates the red blends of Bolgheri DOC?
Cabernet Sauvignon
62
What are the max. permitted yields for Bolgheri and Bolgheri Superiore DOC?
Bolgheri Rosso: 63hL/ha
Bolgheri Superiore: 56hL/ha
63
What are the ageing requirements for Bolgheri and Bolgheri Superiore DOC?
Bolgheri can be released from 1 Sep the year following harvest
Bolgheri Superiore must be aged for a min. 2 years from Jan 1 the year following harvest, inc. min. 1 year in oak.
64
Bolgheri Sassicaia DOC is a denomination reserved for what single estate?
Tenuta San Guido
The producer of Sassicaia
65
What are the DOC regulations of Bolgheri Sassicaia?
Min. 80% cabernet sauvignon
Min. ageing of 2 years, 18 months of which must be in 225 litre oak barrels
66
Ornellaia is a premium producer located in what Italian wine region?
Bolgheri, Tuscany
67
Where is Maremma Toscana DOC?
Based on the former IGT of the same name, this denomination covers an extensive area, encompassing the entire province of Grosseto, adjacent to the coast of southern Tuscany.
68
When was Maremma Toscana upgraded from IGT to DOC?
2011
69
What are the most important grape varieties for Maremma Toscana DOC?
Nearly half of the grapes grown are Sangiovese, with Cabernet Sauvignon and Vermentino (white) the next most important varieties.
70
What are the max. permitted yields for Maremma Toscana DOC?
77hL/ha for single variety red wines
71
Name two premium producers of Maremma Toscana DOC. What wines do they produce?
Le Pupille and Rocca di Frassinello
High quality Bordeaux blends
72
What was Italy's first DOC?
Vernaccia di San Gimignano - now DOCG
73
Describe the climate of Vernaccia di San Gimignano DOCG
Dry summers
Windy - reducing the threat of fungal disease
74
What are the grape varieties permitted for Vernaccia di San Gimignano DOCG?
Min.85% Vernaccia di San Gimignano
+ max. 15% non-aromatic Tuscan white varieties
+ max. 10% Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc
75
Describe a wine from Vernaccia di San Gimignano DOCG.
The wine is typically of medium intensity on the nose with lemon and floral notes and has medium (+) acidity.
76
Outline the viticultural characteristics of Vernaccia di San Gimignano.
* Mid-late ripening
* Can produce very high yields
77
What are the max. permitted yields for Vernaccia di San Gimignano DOCG.
63hL/ha
78
How have sales of Vernaccia di San Gimignano DOCG changed in recent years?
Sales have reduced by 10% in the ten years to 2022.
79
Outline the export markets of Vernaccia di San Gimignano.
* Half of the wine is exported
* The biggest export markets are the US, Germany and Switzerland.
80
Name two producers of Vernaccia di San Gimignano DOCG.
Panizzi and Montenidoli
81
What styles of wine are produced under the San Gimignano DOC?
Rosato, Vin Santo and Rosso wines (including varietal Sangiovese and international variety wines).
82
What is Vin Santo?
An amber coloured sweet wines made by the appassimento method.
83
What grape varieties are most often used for Vin Santo?
Malvasia and Trebbiano
84
85
What is 'Occhio di Pernice'?
Rare, red version of Vin Santo made from Sangiovese.
Translates to 'eye of the partridge'
86
What are the four DOCs exclusively for Vin Santo production?
* Vin Santo del Chianti Classico DOC
* Vin Santo del Chianti DOC
* Vin Santo Carmignano DOC
* Vin Santo di Montepulciano DOC
87
What is fiaschi in Chianti?
Bottle often associated with Chianti. Bottle with rounded bottom, wrapped in straw basket.
In latter years, consumers came to associate fiaschi with poor quality.
88
What do the terms Colli and colline mean in Italian?
Hill and hills
89
Ageing for Chianti DOCG
Cannot be released until March 1 the year following harvest
90
Ageing for Chianti Superiore DOCG
Cannot be released until September 1 the year following harvest
91
Ageing for Chianti Riserva DOCG
Min. 2 years ageing from January 1st the year following harvest
92
Ageing for Chianti Classico DOCG
Cannot be released until October 1 the year following harvest
93
Ageing for Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG
Min. 24 months ageing from January 1 the year following harvest, including 3 months in bottle
94
Ageing for Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG.
Min. 30 months ageing from January 1 the year following harvest, including 3 months in bottle
95
What kind of oak do Italian producers typically prefer?
Slavonian oak
96
97
What was the Brunellogate scandal of 2008?
It was found that some of Brunello's largest producers were including other grape varieties in their wines that were supposed to be 100% Sangiovese, forcing the declassification of more than 1 million litres of Brunello and Rosso di Montalcino wines.
98
Ageing for Rosso di Montalcino DOC.
Cannot be released until September 1 the year following harvest
99
Ageing for Brunello di Montalcino DOC.
Min 2 years in wood plus 4 months in bottle.
Cannot be released until January 1 the 5th year following harvest.
100
Ageing for Brunello di Montalcino DOC.
Min. 2 years in wood plus 6 months in bottle. Cannot be released until January 1 the 6th year following harvest.
101
Ageing for Rosso di Montepulcinano DOC.
Cannot be released until March 1 the year following harvest unless given authorisation.
102
Ageing for Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG.
Min. 2 years of ageing from January 1st the year following harvest, completed through any of the following methods:
* 24 months in wood
* min. 18 months in wood + 6 months in an alternative container
* Min. 12 months in wood, min. 6 months in bottle with the remainder time in an alternative container.
103
How does Vino Nobile de Montepulciano differ in style to Chianti and Brunello?
Stylistically, Vino Nobile is often riper and less acidic than Chianti Classico, and a bit more angular than Brunello di Montalcino, especially in blended wines, but less oxidative.
104
Describe the soils of Vernaccia di San Gimignano DOCG.
Soils consist mostly of sandy-clay yellow tuff, loose in structure and with high drainage
105
What does the word sassicaia mean?
Place of many stones
106
What is the permanent sassicaia blend?
85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Cabernet Franc
107
Where is the wine Grattamacco produced?
Bolgheri
108
Ca’ Marcanda is a property owned by which producer?
Angelo Gaja
109
Where is Angelo Gaja based?
Barbaresco
110
Which province does the Bolgheri DOC lie in?
The Livorno province
111
What is Sangiovese locally referred to as in Vino Nobile Montepulciano DOCG?
Prugnolo Gentile
112
How much does Chianti DOCG account for in Tuscany's total DOC(G) production?
Nearly half
113
How much of total production do co-operatives play in the following denominations:
Chianti DOCG
Chianti Classico DOCG
Montalcino (Rosso and Brunello)
Chianti: 14%
Chianti Classico: 6%
Montalcino: 1%
114
How much of Chianti Classico DOCG is exported?
Nearly 81% of total production
115
What are the main export markets of Chianti Classico DOCG?
USA (46% by volume)
Canada
UK
116
How much of Montalcino's wine is exported?
63% by value
117
What are the main export markets of Montalcino wines?
USA
Canada
Germany
118
How much of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG is exported?
70%
119
What are Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG's main export markets?
Germany
USA
Switzerland
120
How much of Chianti DOCG is exported?
60%
121
What are Chianti DOCGs biggest export markets?
Germany
USA
UK
122
How are the different wines of Tuscany promoted differently?
Chianti, Chianti Classico and Montepulciano are promoted with reference to their place in Tuscan culture
Bolgheri and Montalcino are promoted as wines of world-class quality
123
What is anteprime in Tuscany?
A once-a-year opportunity for buyers and
wine journalists from around the world to taste the new wines of last year’s vintage, aged and Riserva wines.
124
Where is the Marche region of Italy?
Central Italy
Stretches from the Adriatic sea to the Apennines.
Bordered by Emilia-Romagna in the north and Abruzzo in the south.
125
What are the six most planted grape varieties of Marche?
Verdicchio
Sangiovese
Montepulciano
Trebbiano Toscano
Pecorino
Passerina
126
Describe the climate of Marche.
* Inland, west of Ancona, climate is more continental with dry autumns
* Towards the coast, climate is mediterranean with hot summers, little rainfall in summer
127
Describe the soils of March.
Soils are predominantly limestone and clay, with good balance between water retaining and free draining.
128
Outline the viticultural characteristics of Verdicchio.
* Late ripening, needs a long time to fully ripen.
* The first four buds are sterile, therefore needs to be planted at low densities.
* Retains high acidity levels
* Susceptible to powdery and downey mildew, and botrytis
129
Describe a wine made from Verdicchio.
The wines have a pale lemon colour, medium (–) aromatic intensity with blossom, apple, lemon, fennel and almond notes with a slightly bitter finish, high acidity and a medium body. Wines are made across the whole quality range from acceptable to outstanding.
130
How is Verdicchio typically handled in the winery?
Early consumption wines
* Most entry level wines do not undergo MLF
* Wines are aged for 4-6 months in stainless steel and bottled for early release and consumption
Riserva wines
* Some producers choose MLF for creamier acidity
* Aged on lees in old barrels for texture but not flavour
131
What are the DOC(G)s exclusively for Verdicchio production in Marche.
* Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi DOC and Riserva DOCG
* Verdicchio di Matelica DOC and Riserva DOCG
132
Where is Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi DOC?
Marche
In the low hills west of Ancona
133
What are the max. permitted yields for Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi DOC
98hL/ha
134
What styles/denominations are produced under the Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi DOC
Verdicchio
Spumante
Passito
Classico
Classico Superiore
135
What are the max. permitted yields for Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi Classico Superiore DOC
77hL/ha
136
Where is Verdicchio di Matelica DOC
Marche
South-west of Castelli di Jesi, in the foothills of the Appennines
137
How does the climate of Verdicchio di Matelica DOC differ from that of Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi.
Verdicchio di Matelica is in a higher zone in the foothills of the Appennines. Protected from the influences of the ocean, Matelica experiences more of a continental climate, with hot days and cold nights.
Results in higher retained acidity than wines produced closer to the sea.
138
How do the wines of Verdicchio di Matelica and Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi differ stylistically?
Wines from Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi are more fruity and floral.
Verdicchio di Matelica are more concentrated with higher acidity, less fruity.
139
What are the max. permitted yields for Verdicchio di Matelica DOC?
91hL/ha
140
Ageing for Verdicchio di Matelica Riserva DOCG.
18 months from December 1 of the harvest year
141
Ageing for Verdicchio dei Castello di Jesi Riserva DOCG.
18 months from December 1 of the harvest year, including at least 6 months in the bottle
142
Outline the viticultural characteristics of Pecorino.
* High disease resistance
* Clonal selection has rectified low productivity
* Ripens early
* Has some sterile buds near trunk
143
How are Verdicchio and Pecorino mostly planted in Marche.
Both varieties are best planted long (pergola or guyot) due to sterile buds near the trunk.
144
Describe a wine made from Pecorino.
* High alcohol (14.5%) due to low productivity
* High acidity (balances alcohol)
* The wines have herbal notes (sage, thyme, mint), with crisp apple and pear fruit and are medium bodied.
145
Where is Pecorino mostly grown in Italy?
Marche
146
What is the DOCG known for its Pecorino production?
Offida DOCG
147
What denominations can Pecorino based wines be sold as in Marche?
Marche IGT or
Offida Pecorino DOCG if grown in the area and by the regulations.
148
What are the typical ageing practices for Pecorino in Marche?
Some are released early to retain primary fruit
A minority of wines undergo 12-18 months ageing in old oak.
149
Where is the Passerina grape typically grown in Italy?
Marche and Abruzzo
150
Outline the viticultural characteristics of Passerina
* Good disease resistance
* High production
* Late ripening
* Naturally high acidity, but can lose this quickly once fully mature.
151
What denominations can Passerina based wines be sold in Marche?
Marche IGT
Offida Passerina DOCG
152
Biancame is a local white variety of which region?
Marche
153
What styles of wine does the grape variety Biancame produce?
Fresh, crisp white wines made for local consumption
154
What is the most important black grape variety grown in Marche?
Montepulciano
155
Outline the viticultural characteristics of Montepulciano
* Resistant to downy and botrytis, susceptible to powdery
* Needs a long season to fully ripen
* Prone to uneven ripening within individual bunches
156
How is Montepulciano handled in the winery?
* Susceptible to developing reductive sulphur compounds in the winery - requires frequent aeration to prevent off-flavours
* Short maceration (4-5 days) for simpler, lighter wines and
* Longer maceration (20 days) for high quality wines - typically aged in oak
157
Where is Rosso Piceno DOC located?
DOC covers a large part of the middle of Marche
158
Which DOCs of Marche is Montepulciano a principal grape variety?
* Rosso Piceno & Superiore
* Rosso Cònero
159
Where is Rosso Piceno Superiore DOC?
Marche
Covers 13 townships within the Ascoli Piceno in the south of the region.
160
What are the principal of Rosso Piceno and Rosso Piceno Superiore DOC?
Montepulciano > Sangiovese
161
What is the principal black varieties for Offida DOCG red wines?
Montepulciano (min.85-100%)
162
Ageing requirements for Offida DOCG Rosso.
Must be aged for a min. 24 months from November 1 of the harvest year, including at least 12 months in wood and 3 months in the bottle
163
Where are Rosso Conero DOC and Conero Riserva DOCG located?
Marche
South of Ancona
164
What are the principal black grape vareities for Rosso Conero DOC and Conero Riserva DOCG?
Montepulciano
(Min. 85% required for both denominations)
165
Ageing requirements for Conero Riserva DOCG
Minimum 2 years from November 1 of the harvest year
166
The IMT (Istituto Marchigiano di Tutela Vini) is the promotional body for which Italian wine region?
Marche
167
What is the name of the promotional body for Marche?
The IMT (Istituto Marchigiano di Tutela Vini)
168
Outline the domestic and export markets for Marche.
* Most of the wine is sold in Italy
* About 1/3 of wine by value is exported
* The USA, Canada, China and Japan are the leading markets
169
What is the current challenges for the producers of Marche?
For producers to build an international reputation for quality, rather than quantity.
170
Where is Umbria located?
Central central Italy - Marche to the east, Tuscany to the west
171
What are the six top planted grape varieties of Umbria?
Sangiovese
Trebbiano Toscano
Grechetto di Orvieto
Merlot
Sagrantino
Cabernet Sauvignon
172
Describe the climate of Umbria.
War, mildly continental climate.
Average annual rain fall of 800ml falling mostly in Autumn and Winter.
Water stress can be an issue in summer.
173
Outline the viticultural characteristics of Grechetto di Orvieto.
* Grechetto di Orvieto is a white, thick skinned variety
* Susceptible to fungal disease - makes it suitable for late harvesting
* Good resistance to downey
174
Describe the general flavour profile of a wine made from Grechetto di Orvieto.
Low to medium intensity lemon and white flower aromas.
High acidity
Medium body
175
Outline the viticultural characteristics of Sagrantino.
* Needs full sunshine and heat to fully ripen
* Moderately productive
* Susceptible to downey and powdery mildew, grape moths, and tiny spiders that live on the underside of the leaves and reduce vegetative growth.
176
Describe the best sites and training methods for Sagrantino to best perform.
Hillside sites, 220-470m altitude
Typically trained guyot or cordon with spurs and VSP trellised.
177
Describe a wine made from Sagrantino.
* Deep ruby in colour
* Medium + to pronounced flavours of red and black fruit, high acidity and high tannins.
* Typically require long ageing during production and often after bottling before they're ready to drink
178
Umbrian whites are typically blends from which two grape varieties?
Grechetto di Orvieto
Trebbiano Toscana
Better wines have a higher proportion of Grechetto
179
Where is Orvieto DOC?
Orvieto is situated mainly on the western edge of Umbria with a small extension into
neighbouring Lazio.
180
What are the assemblage requirements for Orvieto DOC?
Min. 60% Grechetto di Orvieto and/or Trebbiano Toscana combined
181
Vines for Orvieto DOC must be grown at what altitude?
100-550m above sea level
182
Grechetto di Orvieto is a grape variety mostly grown in which region?
Umbria
183
Sagrantino is the specialty variety of which region?
Umbria
184
Describe a wine from Orvieto DOC.
Medium - intensity lemon and apple, medium to medium + alcohol, medium + acidity and a light body
185
What are the max. yields per hectare for Orvieto DOC.
77hL/ha
186
What are the max. yields per hectare for Orvieto Superiore DOC?
56hL/ha
187
What styles of wines are made under the Orvieto DOC?
Secco (dry)
Abboccato (off-dry)
Amabile (semi-sweet)
Dolce (sweet)
Superiore
Vendemmia Tardiva (late harvest)
Muffa Nobile (noble rot)
188
Describe the typical winemaking practices for Orvieto DOC.
* The dry wines are fermented in stainless steel at cool temperatures
* Aged briefly in stainless steel before being released for drinking between 1-2 years.
(Dry wines)
189
Name a significant producer of Orvieto DOC.
Barberani
190
Where is Montefalco DOC located?
Umbria
191
What are the principal black grape varieties for Montefalco DOC Rosso and blending requirements?
Sangiovese (min. 60-70%)
Sagrantino (min. 10-15%)
Combined with other varieties
192
What are the max. permitted yields for Montefalco DOC Rosso?
77hL/ha
193
What are the ageing requirements for Montefalco DOC Rosso?
Min. 18 months prior to release
194
What are the max. permitted yields for Montefalco Sagrantino DOC?
52hL/ha
195
What are the blending requirements for Montefalco Sangrantino DOC?
Wines must be 100% Sagrantino
196
What are the ageing requirements for Montefalco Sagrantino DOC?
Min. 37 months before release.
1 year must be in wood
197
What styles of wine are made in Montefalco DOC?
Bianco
Grechetto
Rosso
Rosso Riserva
198
Outline the export market for Montefalco Sagrantino DOC
60% is exported with the biggest markets being USA, Germany and Canada.
199
Name a significant producer of Montefalco Sagrantino DOC.
Arnaldo Caprai
200
Arnaldo Caprai is a significant producer of which DOC?
Montefalco Sagrantino DOC
Umbria
201
Where is Lazio?
Central Italy
Includes the city of Rome
202
What are the five most important grape varieties of Lazio?
* Trebbiano Toscana
* Malvasia
* Merlot
* Sangiovese
* Cesanese
203
Describe the broad climate of Lazio.
Warm mediterranean
204
What are the moderating influences on Lazio's climate?
* Altitude on low hills (up to 300m)
* Cooling breezes from the sea
205
What are the main hazards experienced in Lazio?
Spring frost
Hail
Excessive heat in summer
Untimely rainfall during harvest
206
What are the two Malvasia varieties mostly grown in Lazio?
Malvasia Bianca di Candia
Malvasia del Lazio
207
Outline the characteristics of Malvasia Bianca di Candia.
* Good resistance to disease and produces high yields
* Juice is prone to oxidation so must be handles carefully in the winery.
208
Name a parent of the Malvasia del Lazio grape.
Muscat of Alexandria
Malvasia del Lazio is a natural crossing between Muscat of Alexandria and a local grape variety.
209
What characteristics does Malvasia Bianca di Candia contribute to wine?
In blends it contributes medium (–) intensity lemon and apple fruit, medium alcohol and medium (+) acidity and a light body.
210
Outline the viticultural characteristics of Cesanese.
* Black variety
* Semi -aromatic, very late ripening, very high yielding (potential to produce high quality fruit too)
* Prone to powdery mildew
* Vulnerable to Autumn rains and failure to ripen fully
211
Name a DOCG where Cesanese is a principal grape variety.
Cesanese di Piglio DOCG
212
What are the three DOCGs of Lazio?
Cannellino di Frascati DOCG
Cesanese del Piglio (Piglio) DOCG
Frascati Superiore DOCG
213
What are the principal grape varieties of Frascati DOC and Frascati Superiore DOC>
Malvasia Bianca di Candia
Malvasia del Lazio
Combined must make a min. 70% of the blend.
Max. 30% Trebbiano Toscana
214
What are the max. permitted yields for Frascati DOC?
Max. 105hL/ha
215
What are the max. permitted yields for Frascati Superiore DOCG?
77hL/ha
216
What are the ageing requirements for Frascati Superiore DOCG?
The wines have to be aged for one year before release, no requirement for wood.
217
How much of Frascati's total production does Frascati Superiore DOCG account for?
20%
218
What wines are mostly produced in Castelli Romani DOC
More white wine is made than red and these whites must be made from Malvasia del
Lazio, Malvasia Bianca di Candia or Trebbiano Toscano at up to 120 hL/ha, resulting in light
flavour intensity.
219
What red wines are produced in Lazio?
Sangiovese and Merlot are the most produced varieties, mostly consumed locally.
Wines made from Cesanese.
220
Damiano Ciolli is a premium producer in which region?
Lazio
221
Describe the export market of Frascati.
60% of production is exported with USA, Canada and Germany being the biggest markets.
222
Where is Abruzzo?
Abruzzo is on Italy's eastern coast, south of Marche and North of Puglia.
223
What is the most important grape variety in Abruzzo?
Montepulciano
224
What are the three main wines produces in Abruzzo?
* Trebbiano d'Abruzzo; a crisp white with high acidity, typically unoaked.
* Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo, a medium to medium + bodied rosé made from Montepulciano
* The red montepulciano d'Abruzzo
225
What are the two climactic 'zones' of Abruzzo?
The hillside vineyards under the Appennines (warm continental)
The flatter coastal zone (warm mediterranean)
226
Describe the climate of the hillsides of Abruzzo.
Categorised by a warm, continental climate with cold, snowy winters and warm, short summers with cooling influence from the ocean.
Results in slowed sugar accumulation, more time for aroma development.
Late spring frosts and autumn rains are a risk
227
Describe the climate of coastal Abruzzo.
Warm mediterranean climate
Temperatures here are higher than those of the hillsides.
Better suited for the production of high volume wines.
228
Outline the viticultural characteristics of Trebbiano Abruzzese.
Mid to late ripening, vigorous and highly productive
Well suited to growing on pergola systems
Prone to powdery mildew
229
What are the principal grape varieties for Trebbiano d'Abruzzo DOC?
Min. 85% combined Trebbiano Abruzzese, Trebbiano Toscano, and/or Bombino Bianco.
230
What are the max. permitted yields for Trebbiano d'Abruzzo DOC?
98hL/ha
231
Name two premium producers of Trebbiano d'Abruzzo.
Valentini - their Trebbiano d'Abruzzo is often considered one of Italy's greatest white wines
Masciarelli
232
Valentini is a premium producer based in which region?
Abruzzo
Particularly Trebbiano d'Abruzzo DOC
233
What are the blending requirements for Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo DOC?
Min. 85% of Montepulciano
234
What kind of wines is produced under the Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo DOC?
Rosés from Montepulciano
235
What rosé production methods are used for Cerasuolo d'Abruzzo DOC?
* Direct pressing
*Short maceration (up to 12 hours) - sometimes made as a byproduct of a producers redwines (Saignée)
236
What are the three levels for red wines made from Montepulciano in Abruzzo?
* Montepulciano d’Abruzzo DOC
* Montepulciano d’Abruzzo DOC Subzones
* Colline Teramane Montepulciano d’Abruzzo DOCG
237
What are the growing requirements for Montepulciano d'Abruzzo DOC?
* Must be grown on hilly sites
* Max. yields 98hL/ha
238
What are the requirements of Montepulciano d'Abruzzo DOC wines with subzone named?
* Max. yields of 66hL/ha
* Min. 18 months ageing, half in wood
239
What are the ageing requirements of Colline Teramane Montepulciano d’Abruzzo DOCG?
Min. 2 years, 1 in wood
240
What are the max. yields for Colline Teramane Montepulciano d’Abruzzo DOCG?
66hL/ha
241
What are the two DOCGs of Abruzzo?
Colline Teramane Montepulciano d'Abruzzo DOCG
Terre Tollesi DOCG
242
Terre Tollesi is a DOCG located in which region?
Abruzzo
243
Describe a Montepulciano d ’Abruzzo wine.
Montepulciano d ’Abruzzo wines are typically deep ruby in colour, medium intensity red cherry and plum fruited, medium (+) body and high tannins as well as inexpensive to mid priced. At the mid-price level, wines will typically be aged in oak.
244
How much of a role do co-operatives play in Abruzzo.
3/4 of Abruzzo's wine comes from the region's 40 co-operatives
245
What are the biggest export markets for Abuzzo wines?
Northern Europe
Cananda
USA
