Pignoletto Wine Region

Pignoletto wine region is one of the renowned sub-region of Emilia Romagna for its wines from the distinctive Pignoletto grape. 

Pignoletto’s quintessential style is set apart from the rest due to its soil types, the selection of grape varieties grown, and the specific production methods of winemakers in the area. These elements produce a style of wine found nowhere else in Emilia – Romagna, or the world for that matter. 

As you embark on your travels through the wine region of Pignoletto, we invite you to explore a remarkable region with breathtaking views of vineyards and incredible wines. Wine lovers from across the globe can sit back and listen to the captivating stories of Pignoletto wineries, told by the passionate winemakers with long-standing history.

We hope you will try the memorable wines that make Pignoletto a favorite for wine drinkers worldwide. Browse our site to discover what Wineries in Pignoletto have to offer and take full advantage of this lovely region. Find out more about Wine Tasting and Tours in Pignoletto.

Where is the Pignoletto Wine Region?

The DOC zone of Pignoletto was designated for the Emilia-Romagna region in 2014, and it is used for white wines derived from the Grechetto Gentile and Grechetto di Todi (Pignoletto) grape varieties. This area of north east Italy includes numerous municipalities in Bologna, Modena, and Ravenna. It's made up of three unique sub-areas - Colli d'imola, Modena and Reno.

Unique terroir of Pignoletto  appellation

The Pignoletto cradle extends right across the plain between the Apennine hills of Emilia Romagna. The wine is produced in an area that includes the provinces of Bologna and Modena, as well as parts of Forlì Cesena. For the activities of vinification, bottling and packaging, denomination also extends to the provinces of Reggio Emilia and Ravenna. The territory of Grechetto Gentile enclosed by the new DOC, presents very heterogeneous features surrounding the soil and the elevation, which confer to Pignoletto its distinctive versatility. The limitless shades that it can assume, depending on the soil, environments and interpreters are surprising. Pignoletto DOC is a wine to experience.

History of Pignoletto wine region

Pignoletto DOC wine has a long-standing heritage that makes it a highly sought-after product. It is truly unique and remarkable. It derives its name from the Pignoletto area in Monteveglio which was first mentioned by Pliny the Elder in his Natural History that dates back to 1st century AD. Pignoletto's grape type is called Grechetto Gentile, or Alionzina. The thick skin and small bunches this variety of grapes possess provide an advantage of being versatile- it can grow in a variety of soils, thus producing an exceptional type of wine. This allows for the creation of a wide range of wines with versatile characteristics. The most preferred wines from this region come from the flatlands, which are usually light, fresh and effervescent. However, wines crafted in the hillside regions are also something to look out for - they tend to have a more structured flavor profile and longer staying power.

In 2014, Pignoletto DOC was established as an official designation for white wines made using the Grechetto Gentile or Grechetto di Todi grape, also known as Pignoletto. This separated them from Colli Bolognesi, Modena and Reno - three regions which previously made wines using this particular grape variety. In addition, there is a DOCG wine called Colli Bolognesi Pignoletto.

What is Pignoletto Wine

Wineries that make the Pignoletto DOC wines feature a wide array of white, sparkling, passito, and late harvest wines to please even the most demanding palates.

The people of this region are as vibrant and full of life as their famous sparkling wine, Pignoletto. This versatile tipple is perfect for celebrations, big or small. Enjoy the fresh, cheerful and delightful aromas accompanied by a straw-yellow color of this wine. You will find flowery notes of hawthorne and white fruit that tantalize your taste buds with its characteristic sparkle.

Grechetto Gentile grape variety has become well-known for its four varieties: sparkling, the most widely recognized form of wine, which is seen as embodying Pignoletto for many. Its versatility is highly praised. The classic still wine is usually straw-yellow in color and has a distinct bitter taste. The sparkling version has become increasingly popular, boasting additional aromatic flavors and refreshing acidity. Finally, the raisin or late harvest Pignoletto wine offers a sweet taste and is identifiable for its great smoothness. 

Pignoletto DOC regulations for produced wines:

Pignoletto winecolor: straw yellow sometimes with greenish reflections;

smell: characteristic, fine;

taste: dry to sweet, characteristic, harmonious, sometimes slightly bitter; minimum total alcoholic strength by volume: 10,5% vol;

Sparkling "Pignoletto"foam: fine and evanescent;

color: straw yellow;

smell: characteristic, slightly aromatic;

taste: dry to sweet, characteristic, harmonious, sometimes slightly bitter; minimum total alcoholic strength by volume: 10,5% vol;

"Pignoletto" sparkling wine:foam: fine and persistent;

colour: straw yellow;

smell: characteristic, slightly aromatic;

taste: savory, characteristic, harmonious, from brut nature to Dry;

"Pignoletto" passito:color: golden yellow tending to amber with aging;

smell: fine, characteristic, delicate;

taste: sweet to sweet, soft;

minimum total alcoholic strength by volume: 15% vol of which at least 12% vol effective; 

"Pignoletto" late harvested wines:color: golden yellow tending to amber with aging; smell: intense, characteristic;

taste: sweet to sweet, soft, delicate;

minimum total alcoholic strength by volume: 14% vol of which at least 12% vol effective.

Food to Pair with Pignoletto wine

1. Spuma di mortadella

Bologna is well-known for its delectable mortadella, an Italian pork sausage filled with finely ground pork and lard enhanced with aromatic spices. This flavorful ingredient is incorporated into several mouthwatering dishes by locals. Spuma di mortadella is a classic Bolognese starter dish that is popular among the locals. It is so well-loved that its recipe has even been registered with the Chamber of Commerce of Bologna!

An easy yet delectable treat of mortadella di Bologna, ricotta, grated Parmigiano Reggiano and heavy cream can be enjoyed alone or as a great supplement for an Italian antipasto spread along with crostini, gnocco fritto, tigelle or crescentine.

2. ​Prosciutto di Modena

For generations, this type of ham has been manufactured in the area near the Panaro river valley and up to an elevation of 900 metres in Modena, Bologna, & Reggio Emilia. 

Modena ham is exclusively made using the Large White, Landrance, and Duroc pig breeds. Every step in its production - including slaughter, tracking marks, trimming, salting and greasing - is undertaken with meticulous regulation. Prosciutto di Modena is known for its distinctive aroma and milder taste. The curing duration is a minimum of 14 months which yields the desired outcome.

3. Baccalà mantecato

Hailing from the Veneto region, this classic Italian fare is a delightful combination of salted cod boiled in a mixture of water and milk. The deboning process is meticulous but worth it as it culminates into a creamy yet solid texture.

To finish, fish is usually seasoned with olive oil, garlic, and sometimes parsley. It is a delightful meal that has many complex flavors and can range from being chunky to extremely smooth. One of the most popular dishes is polenta or toasted bread, served as an accompaniment to grilled food.

4. Tortelloni

Tortelloni is a variety of Italian pasta that is traditionally stuffed with ingredients such as spinach, ricotta cheese, walnuts, or porcini mushrooms. It is made in the same shape as the famous tortellini, but tortelloni are somewhat larger in size.

Emilia-Romagna is renowned for its delicious pasta, and tortelloni is a specialty dish. To complement this meal perfectly, try pairing it with a light sauce made of melted butter and sage leaves.

Places To See in Pignoletto Area

1. A Pleasant and Calming Experience Among the Apennine Mountains

Life can be busy and intense at times, which is why we all need to take a step back and escape the hustle of the metropolis - to find peace and tranquility in small towns that are often underrated. Give yourself a break and explore these hidden gems that are waiting for you! Bologna is surrounded by hills that house a tranquil village, steeped in the healing properties of thermal waters. Taking a dip or indulging in beauty treatments with this water can work wonders on your health & rejuvenate your body and soul. Porretta Terme is a hidden gem situated in the lush and green surroundings of the Apennines in Bologna. You can find many stunning attractions in this beautiful town.

2. Parma is a Spectacular City Filled With Musical Wonders

Parma, located in the Emilia section of Emilia-Romagna, is one of the oldest cities in the region. It has an abundance of cultural sites such as Romanesque buildings and its iconic Cathedral with beautiful frescoes and pink marble Baptistery. The historic center is a sight to behold. The Regio Theater, boasting over a century old history, is renowned for its classical music concerts. For generations now, music has been a fundamental part of the city's culture. The National Gallery situated inside the Palazzo della Pilotta contains masterpieces by Correggio and Canaletto. It is also renowned worldwide for its Parmigiano Reggiano and Parma Ham.

3. Exploring the Historic Porrettana Railway – A Journey Through Time

The Porrettana railway is an Italian railway line that runs from Bologna to Pistoia. It was first opened in 1884 and was built to connect the two cities as part of the Grand Duchy of Tuscany's efforts to increase trade and communication. The line has become a tourist attraction in recent years, as it provides a unique journey back in time, allowing visitors to explore the historic towns and villages that the line passes through. Along the route, visitors can view stunning views of the Apennine Mountains and spot various wildlife such as deer, wild boar, and foxes. 

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