Ghemme
DOCG
Iconic wine from Piedmont whose cradle dates back to the 4th-5th millenium B.C. Ghemme is produced in the heart of the hills of fluvial-alluvial origin in the province of Novara alongside the left bank of the Sesia river. It is believed that back in the Romans time the production of Ghemme was so copious that the town of Agamium, currently known as the town of Ghemme, had a bunch of grapes and a bundle of wheat ears as the municipal emblem.
Ghemme was praised by Italian novelist Antonio Fogazzaro in his novel “Piccolo mondo antico” where Ghemme featured in the gala banquet. Such a prestigious wine gained D.O.C.G. status in 1997.
Production area: municipalities of Ghemme and Romagnano Sesia, province of Novara.
Varietals (%):Nebbiolo (locally called Spanna) minimum 85%; other varietals such as Vespolina and Uva Rara (a.k.a. Bonarda Novarese) are allowed either alone or in blend up to 15% maximum.
Colour: ruby, often with garnet reflections.
Nose: intense and persistent, fine, pleasant and ethereal.
Palate: dry and sapid with a pleasant slightly bitter finish.
Ageing: minimum 34 months of which, 18 in oak according to the designation guidelines. The Riserva version requires a longer ageing time of 46 months of which 24 in oak. Following the ageing, a 6-month period in bottle is required for refining.
Serving temperature: 18°-20°C
Best if paired with: main courses (risotto-based, pasta with meat sauce); game (stewed hare), meat (roasted and braised beef and donkey), long-seasoned cheeses.
