Day 19 | Oltrepò Pavese (Lombardy, Italy)

Pinot Noir’s Underrated Northern Outpost

In the hilly landscapes south of the Po River, Oltrepò Pavese is a Lombardian region often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors. Yet it stands as one of Italy’s most extensive plantings of Pinot Noir (Pinot Nero), yielding both still and sparkling styles that deserve a closer look. With a mix of sunny slopes, clay-limestone soils, and a moderate continental climate, Oltrepò Pavese Pinots can be fruit-forward yet balanced, offering red berry intensity, gentle earthiness, and a fresh acidity—a signature of Northern Italian terroir.

Defining Traits

• Varied Topography
  Rolling hills and valleys reach up to 400-500 meters in elevation, creating microclimates ideal for both crisp sparklers and rounder, more structured still Pinot Noir.

• Clay & Limestone Soils
  The blend of calcareous marl and clay promotes both fruit concentration and a distinct minerality, supporting wines that showcase bright cherry, strawberry, and subtle floral notes.

• Continental-Mediterranean Climate
  Warm summers with cool nights preserve aromatic lift and acidity. Winters can be cold, limiting disease pressure and encouraging a slower, more controlled ripening for Pinot.

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Terroir & Winemaking Nuances

• Focus on Clones & Vineyard Management
  Many producers now employ Dijon clones alongside local varieties, fine-tuning canopy management for better phenolic ripeness in this moderately warm climate.