July 3rd-Pelaverga

Pelaverga is an ancient red grape indigenous to the Piedmont region of northwestern Italy. Some theorize it dates back to the 8th century in this area. It is commonly blended with Barbera or Nebbiolo. It can also be made into a varietal wine. Pelaverga is also known as Cari in the areas of Chieri and Baldissero Torinese. In the 1990’s, genetic testing proved 2 grapes that were known as Pelaverga were 2 distinct varieties. Pelaverga, which has larger berries, was a different variety from Pelaverga Piccolo. Pelaverga Piccolo is the primary grape in Verduno Pelaverga DOC and is the more revered of the two grapes. The piccolo variant was saved from near extinction by wine producers in the 1970s. Both iterations have light peppery notes with strawberry and other red fruits. 

During my recent travels, I sampled Verduno Pelaverga DOC from a couple producers, Scarpa and Fratelli Alessandria, both from 2022. Both were pale ruby in color. The Scarpa bottle was served with a slight chill, which was perfect for a warm afternoon. The Fratelli Aslessandria was served at room temperature on a cooler afternoon. Both were served around lunch time for a light refreshing sipper. They both had light aromas of strawberry, red cherries, cranberry, red currant and white pepper. They were both dry, light bodied wines with a moderate level of alcohol and very light tannins. Both had a significant level of acid, making them great food wines. The bright red fruit notes were balanced with the light body and light tannins. These bottles made great food wines. They can be served with a plate of charcuterie and cheeses or lighter meats. I had the Fratelli Alessandria paired with a Pelaverga parmesan risotto with cocoa powder for lunch.