The Erbaluce Grape

A Beautiful Connection Between Tradition and Nature

The Erbaluce grape is a rare and unique white grape originating from the Piemonte region in northern Italy. Known for its impressive acidity and aromatic complexity, the Erbaluce grape is a true treasure of the region. It is not an easy grape to work with, especially for making dry wines, but it truly shines in the production of sweet, opulent wines created by winemakers in Piemonte.

The history of winemaking in this region dates back to the 17th century, when sweet wines were more popular than dry ones. In the Dora Baltea valley, an idyllic area in northern Piemonte, the grapes are still cultivated with passion and patience. The Erbaluce grape thrives particularly well in this environment, where mild autumn days and sunny weather give the grapes the time to ripen fully.

The Erbaluce di Caluso is a wine that remains relatively unknown outside Italy, but it is becoming increasingly popular among wine enthusiasts. However, outside of Italy, this wine is difficult to find, adding to the exclusivity of the grape and the wines made from it. When the autumn is particularly long and sunny, the grapes ripen perfectly, and occasionally, a winemaker creates a dry version. These bottles, however, are rare and unique in their kind.

The region where the Erbaluce grape is cultivated stretches across the hills of Canavese, from Ivrea to Caluso, and around the picturesque Lake Viverone. The vineyards in this area are exclusively dedicated to the cultivation of the Erbaluce grape, which produces a range of exceptional wines, from fresh white wines to sparkling and sweet Passitovarieties. Unfortunately, these wines are difficult to find outside the region, which only enhances their exclusivity.

Of all these wines, the Passito is particularly coveted and highly appreciated. This wine is made from grapes that are carefully dried after harvest, allowing them to develop their full flavor and concentration. The process is long: the wine is bottled only after five years, and then another six years must pass before the wine reaches its full potential. This patient process makes the Passito a wine made with love and time, and the long wait is truly worth it.

Specifications of the Erbaluce di Caluso:

• DOC since June 25, 1998.

• The Caluso DOC designation can also be used.

• Erbaluce di Caluso DOC is a production area for white wines, including still wines, Spumante, and Passito.

• The wine must be made exclusively from the Erbaluce grape.

• The yield per hectare can be a maximum of 120 hectoliters.

• The alcohol content must be at least 11%. For Spumante, this is 11.5%, and for Passito, 17%.

• The grapes must be dried until at least February 1st of the year following the harvest.

• The wine must mature on the estate until at least November 1st of the fifth year after the harvest date.

  
  

Viverone: The Heart of Erbaluce

Viverone is a charming village located between Biella and the southern part of the Canavese region, on the shores of the beautiful Lake Viverone. It is home to the prestigious Erbaluce di Viverone DOCG, a designation reserved exclusively for wines made from the Erbaluce grape. The region benefits from an ideal microclimate due to the proximity of the lake, with mild temperatures and ample sunlight, which contributes to the aromatic complexity of the wines.

The wines from this region are as varied as the landscape itself: from fresh, dry wines to sparkling wines and opulent sweet varieties. Each wine has a characteristic balance of fresh acidity and rich, layered aromas that reflect the pure essence of the region. The proximity to the lake adds a refreshing element to the wines, while the gentle hills and fertile soil provide the perfect environment for cultivating the Erbaluce grape.

At Sapore Piemontese, Marc will gladly take you on a journey to the surrounding wineries, where you can taste the unique Erbaluce grape. You will experience the different nuances and flavors that make this special grape so beloved. And if you wish, Marc will prepare a delicious dish with local products, allowing you to experience the flavors of the region in all their glory. This is the perfect opportunity to discover the essence of Piemonte, through both its wines and its local cuisine.

Viverone is not only a paradise for wine lovers but also for travelers seeking a peaceful and picturesque destination. The village is rich in history, with charming medieval architecture, and offers breathtaking views of the lake. Here, you can enjoy not only the exquisite wines but also the surrounding nature, culture, and tradition.