Liguria is a coastal region in the northwest of Italy, situated between the Ligurian Sea and the Apennine Mountains. It is renowned for its stunning landscapes, picturesque villages, and of course, its delicious wines. The history of winemaking in Liguria dates back to the ancient Greeks, who planted vines in the region as early as the 6th century BC. The Romans also cultivated vines in the area, and it is believed that the famous poet Virgil wrote about the wines of Liguria in his epic poem, the Aeneid. Today, Liguria is home to a number of small, family-run wineries that produce a variety of wines. The region is known for its white wines, which are made from the Vermentino and Pigato grapes, as well as its red wines, which are made from the Dolcetto and Rossese grapes.
The main grapes grown in Liguria are Vermentino, Pigato, Dolcetto, and Rossese. Vermentino and Pigato are used to make crisp, aromatic white wines, while Dolcetto and Rossese are used to make full-bodied red wines.
Some of the most famous wineries in Liguria include La Scolca, La Spinetta, and Tenuta San Guido.
Pigato is a white grape that is primarily grown in the western part of Liguria. Interestingly, the name "Pigato" is derived from the local dialect word "pigau," which means "spotted," referring to the grape's distinctive speckled appearance. While Pigato is not as well-known as some other Italian grape varieties, it has been gaining popularity in recent years as more wine enthusiasts discover its unique flavors and characteristics.