DOC Valle d'Aosta D.O.C. wines awarded at the Gilbert & Gaillard International Challenge

Denominazione di Origine Controllata

The Aosta Valley vineyard stretches along both banks of the Dora Baltea, from the border with Piedmont up to the higher valley near Morgex and La Salle, at the foot of Mont Blanc. It is Italy's smallest wine region, farmed in terraces on often steep slopes held by dry-stone walls, at altitudes among the highest in Europe. The soils are colluvial-alluvial in origin, stony and well drained. The alpine climate is dry and sunny, with marked temperature swings late in the season that favour aromatic ripening. Plantings combine native varieties such as Petit Rouge, Fumin, Cornalin, Prié Blanc, Vien de Nus, Mayolet, Prëmetta and Vuillermin with more widely grown grapes including Chardonnay, Pinot, Gamay, Müller-Thurgau, Merlot, Syrah and Nebbiolo. The regional appellation encompasses numerous communal sub-denominations, each tied to a distinct terroir along the valley.

The wines of this appellation

The appellation produces red, white and rosé wines, along with a few sweet wines made from dried grapes. Reds, made from Petit Rouge, Nebbiolo, Fumin or Cornalin, range from soft, fruity styles to more structured, tannic wines built for aging; they show cherry, raspberry and violet, gaining spice and undergrowth notes with age. Whites, from Prié Blanc, Petite Arvine, Chardonnay, Müller-Thurgau or Pinot Gris, stand out for their vivacity, minerality and floral, citrus and stone-fruit aromas; those grown at high altitude gain extra tension and freshness. Moscato Bianco yields sweet, fragrant wines with both floral and fruity character. Whites pair well with river fish, mountain cheeses such as Fontina and polenta-based dishes. Reds suit Aosta Valley charcuterie, red meat, game and aged cheeses.

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