The Oltrepò Pavese stands as an epicentre of wine-growing excellence. Its privileged position on the 45th parallel gives this region a unique geographic character, creating an ideal terroir for growing fine grapes.
The Oltrepò Pavese, a jewel set among the hills of Lombardy, emerges as one of the most fascinating and valuable wine regions in Italy. Its viticultural importance is rooted in a unique combination of geographical, climatic and historical factors, which converge to create an ideal environment for the cultivation of superior quality grapes.
The Magic of the 45th Parallel: Land of Great Wines
A key element that distinguishes Oltrepò Pavese is its privileged geographical position. Situated along the famous 45° parallel, the area enjoys a climate that has made the world‘s most prestigious wine regions famous. This particular latitude reveals itself as the cradle of great red wines, giving Oltrepò a unique geographical location that favours the production of wines of extraordinary quality.
With more than 1,700 wineries spread over a vast area, Oltrepò Pavese is a mainstay in Lombardy‘s wine production, contributing 62% of the region‘s total output. The hilly land, stretching from the Staffora and Coppa Valleys to the Scuropasso and Versa Valleys, offers a variety of soils and microclimates that give the wines a unique richness and complexity.
The Rich Tapestry of Oltrepadani Vines
The Oltrepò Pavese boasts an impressive variety of indigenous grape varieties, each contributing its own distinctive character to the richness of the local wine scene. Among the protagonists are the noble Pinot Noir, the robust Croatina, the elegant Barbera and the refined Riesling. However, the diversity does not end there: Uva Rara, Ughetta/Vespolina, Pinot Bianco, Pinot Grigio, Cortese Bianco, Moscato, Malvasia and even Müller-Thurgau add unique nuances to the Oltrepò Pavese wine mosaic
The connection between the region and the grapevine dates back to ancient times, as evidenced by Strabo‘s mention in 40 BC. Wooden barrels ‘bigger than houses‘ and population density testify to the longevity of the wine tradition in these lands. Over time, modernisation has led to a reduction in native grape varieties, but some historic producers are now recovering forgotten varieties, such as Uva della Cascina or Moradella, thus preserving the area‘s rich wine heritage.
The Diversity of Terroirs: a True Heritage
Oltrepò Pavese is not only a land of extraordinary wines, but also an example of geographical diversity. The different exposures of the hills and the nature of the soils give the wines their uniqueness and unmistakability. The areas most suited to red grape varieties alternate with those more suited to white grape production, creating an enviable wealth of wine expressions.
The Wine Renaissance of the 19th Century: Modern Roots
The oenological renaissance of the Oltrepò Pavese in the last century played a crucial role in the development of today‘s wine-growing excellence. Documents dating back to 1884 indicate the presence of as many as 225 native grape varieties, a testimony to the richness of biodiversity. Today, with a dozen or so of the most widespread varieties, some producers are dedicated to recovering the most evident testimonies of the past, bringing back varieties such as Uva della Cascina or Moradella.
In conclusion,
Oltrepò Pavese stands as a first-class wine region, proud of its historical
heritage and ready to innovate towards the future. Its ability to produce
unique wines, representative of the diversity of the territory, places it among
the must-visit destinations for wine lovers in search of authentic food and
wine experiences. With its combination of tradition, modernity and breathtaking
landscapes, Oltrepò Pavese continues to amaze and win the hearts of wine
connoisseurs around the world.
