Vespolina

Vespolina is a red grape variety, originating from the Lombardy region in Italy. It is known for its intense aromas, bright acidity and full body.

Vespolina produces light red wines with aromas of ripe red fruit and herbal notes. As a variety with a high acidity, it has a high tannin structure and a crisp texture. Its taste profile is characterised by a balance of red fruit flavours and herbal notes, often accompanied by a mineral finish.

Vespolina is a vigorous variety with a medium-sized cluster and a high yield. It is mid to early ripening. Susceptible to early shrivelling of the berries, rot, downy mildew, millerendage and drought. In terms of viticulture, it is important to practice canopy management to ensure adequate ventilation, and keep yields low to ensure the quality of the wine. In terms of winemaking, it is recommended to use a long maceration to ensure the extraction of tannins and aromas. In the Piemonte it is mainly grown in the region of Gattinara and in Oltrepò Pavese under the name Ughetta or Uvetta di Canneto. It is rarely made as varietal wine, in Piemonte DOCs such as Boca, Bramaterra, Colline Novaresi, Ghemme and is usually blended with Nebbiolo and in Oltrepò Pavese mostly with Barbera. Vespolina pairs well with a variety of dishes, from pasta to grilled meats. Since it is a high-acid variety, it pairs well with fatty foods such as cheese and oily fish. Vespolina is mainly grown in the Lombardy region of Italy and Piemonte. In other parts of Italy, it is also found in small quantities in the Val d'Aosta DOC and in the Oltrepò Pavese DOC.

The name "Vespolina" comes from the Latin word "vespa", which means "wasp".

This is a reference to the small size of its clusters, which resemble a swarm of wasps.