Verduno Pelaverga DOC (2023) - Fratelli Alessandria

Pelaverga Piccolo is an extremely rare grape, grown almost only in the municipality of Verduno. Fratelli Alessandria is considered one of the historic custodians of the variety, and this wine is often cited as the benchmark Pelaverga. Despite its pale colour, it has an extremely expressive aromatic profile thanks to its distinctive pepé blanc.

The appellation: Verduno Pelaverga DOC

Verduno Pelaverga DOC is a small but prestigious appellation in the Langhe, recognised in 1995 and dedicated to the production of red wines made mainly from Pelaverga Piccolo, one of the rarest and most distinctive grape varieties in Piedmont. The result is a wine unlike any other in Italy: light, fine, surprisingly spicy, with the famous note of white pepper that makes it immediately recognisable. Produced almost exclusively in the municipality of Verduno – with small parcels in the neighbouring areas of La Morra and Roddi – this DOC is one of the most original expressions of Piedmontese winemaking.

What to eat with Verduno Pelaverga DOC

Who makes it: Fratelli Alessandria

In the small village of Verduno, one of the most discreet gems of Barolo, the Fratelli Alessandria winery is the embodiment of classic Barolo: understated, elegant, deep. A family that has worked the land since the mid-nineteenth century and that today makes wines recognisable for their finesse, balance and territorial identity.

The vine of Verduno Pelaverga DOC

Pelaverga

Pelaverga is a rare red grape variety native to Piedmont, known for light, delicate, spicy and incredibly aromatic wines. It exists in two distinct biotypes: Pelaverga Piccolo, grown almost exclusively in the municipality of Verduno (Langhe) Pelaverga Grosso, found in the Saluzzo area (Province of Cuneo) The most famous Pelaverga is without doubt the one from Verduno, capable of producing wines unique in the Italian landscape for their mix of fragrance, exotic spices and great drinkability.

Verduno Pelaverga DOC: the area

Climate: Continental

Altitude: Low to mid altitude (200–500 m above sea level)

Soil: Limestone / chalk

Geographical setting: Hilly

Profile of Verduno Pelaverga DOC

Primary aromas: Cherry, Strawberry, Berries, Pomegranate

Secondary aromas: Aromatic herbs, Pepper, Rose

Tertiary aromas: Citrus, Leather, Mineral notes

Tasting notes: A bright, transparent ruby red colour. The nose is instantly recognisable: a symphony of white pepper, red flowers and small crisp fruits. The palate is fresh, juicy and slender, with light tannin and lively acidity. The finish is spicy, floral and elegant, with great finesse and the typical “Langhe savouriness”. A wine that aims at drinkability rather than power, but with a very strong aromatic identity.