Sabbioneta

The Protected Geographical Indication "Sabbioneta" indicates white wines (also sparkling), red wines (also sparkling and novello) and rosé wines (also sparkling).

Grapes

The "Sabbioneta" PGI wines must be obtained from vines suitable for cultivation in Lombardy. Production is envisaged with the specification of one of the following varieties: Ancellotta, Barbera, Cabernet franc, Cabernet sauvignon, Carmenere, Chardonnay, Cortese, Corvina, Fortana, Garganega, Groppello gentile, Malvasia bianca, Marzemino, Merlot, Molinara, Negrara, Pinot Bianco, Pinot grigio, Pinot nero, Riesling, Rondinella, Sangiovese and Sauvignon. This indication is reserved for wines at least 85% of which are composed of the corresponding grape variety. The remaining 15% can be obtained from grapes of the same colour, suitable for cultivation in Lombardy. In case of specification of Cabernet, Lambrusco, Trebbiano and Riesling, there are further production constraints, which can be found in the specification.

Physicochemical and Organoleptic properties

Sabbioneta white wines are pale yellow in colour, combined with a delicate, pleasant aroma and a typical, harmonious flavour. The red type has a ruby colour, more or less intense, with a vinous, fruity perfume and a typical, savoury, harmonious taste. The new wine, on the other hand, stands out for its young aroma and dry, fresh flavour. The rosé is characterized by its pink colour, its characteristic perfume and its balanced and harmonious taste. The minimum total alcoholic strength by volume is 10.00% vol. for all types except Novello (11% vol.).

Grape production area

The production area lies between the River Oglio and the River Po, in the middle of the plain, in the province of Mantua, at an altitude of between 13 and 36 metres above sea level.

Specificity and historical notes

Virgil, in his works, mentions the presence of wine-growing activities in the area, with the cultivation of vines in rows on soils of alluvial origin.