Lombardy Wine

Grape varieties in Lombardy reflect the region’s range of landscapes, from Alpine slopes to lake districts and the Po Valley. Pinot Nero, Chardonnay, and Pinot Bianco are central to the region’s traditional-method sparkling wines, especially in Franciacorta and Oltrepò Pavese. Nebbiolo, locally called Chiavennasca in Valtellina, produces structured mountain reds and dried-grape Sforzato wines.

Croatina, Barbera, Uva Rara, Vespolina, Groppello, and Marzemino are important red grapes for DOC wines across Pavia, Brescia, Mantova, and the Garda area. White grapes include Riesling Italico, Riesling Renano, Trebbiano di Soave, Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon, and Garganega, depending on the denomination and province.

In the sections below, we outline the main flavor profiles, structure, and common food pairings for the principal grapes used in Lombardy wine.

Red Grapes

Croatina is one of Lombardy’s most important red grapes, especially in Oltrepò Pavese. It is often locally associated with the name Bonarda and is used in still, sparkling, and semi-sweet red wines.

Croatina wines commonly show dark fruit, firm color, moderate acidity, and noticeable tannins. In blends, the grape adds body and depth, especially when combined with Barbera, Uva Rara, or Vespolina.

Croatina tasting notes:

Appearance:

• Deep ruby to purple-red

Aroma:

• Fruit: Blackberry, black cherry, plum
• Floral: Violet
• Spices: Black pepper, clove
• Other: Earth, almond, dried herbs

Palate:

• Body: Medium to full-bodied
• Tannins: Medium to firm
• Acidity: Medium
• Finish: Often dry, with dark fruit and a lightly bitter edge

Food pairings:

Croatina pairs well with salami, roasted pork, polenta with sausage, braised beef, and aged cheeses.

Pinot Nero is widely planted in Oltrepò Pavese and Franciacorta. In Oltrepò Pavese, it is used for traditional-method sparkling wines, still reds, rosé wines, and white vinifications. In Franciacorta, it contributes structure and depth to sparkling wines, especially rosé styles.

Pinot Nero from Lombardy can range from crisp and red-fruited to more structured and savory, depending on the site and style.

Pinot Nero tasting notes:

Appearance:

• Pale ruby to medium ruby in red wines
• Pale gold in white vinifications
• Pink to salmon in rosé sparkling wines

Aroma:

• Fruit: Cherry, raspberry, strawberry, red currant
• Floral: Violet, rose
• Spices: White pepper, clove
• Other: Forest floor, mushroom, dried leaves

Palate:

• Body: Light to medium-bodied
• Tannins: Fine to moderate
• Acidity: Medium to high
• Finish: Fresh, with red fruit and savory notes

Food pairings:

Pinot Nero pairs well with roast chicken, duck, mushroom risotto, cured meats, and soft cheeses.

Barbera is common in Lombardy’s western and southern wine zones, especially Oltrepò Pavese and San Colombano al Lambro. It is often blended with Croatina and Uva Rara, where it adds acidity and red fruit.

Barbera wines are usually medium-bodied, with bright acidity, low to moderate tannins, and flavors of cherry, plum, and spice.

Barbera tasting notes:

Appearance:

• Ruby red with purple reflections

Aroma:

• Fruit: Red cherry, sour cherry, plum, raspberry
• Spices: Black pepper, licorice
• Other: Earth, dried herbs, light oak notes in aged versions

Palate:

• Body: Medium-bodied
• Tannins: Low to moderate
• Acidity: Medium-high to high
• Finish: Fresh, with red fruit and savory notes

Food pairings:

Barbera pairs well with tomato-based pasta, risotto with sausage, grilled meats, pizza, and medium-aged cheeses.

Nebbiolo is the main grape of Valtellina, where it is locally known as Chiavennasca. It is used for Valtellina Rosso, Valtellina Superiore, and Sforzato di Valtellina.

Compared with many Nebbiolo wines from Piedmont, Valtellina examples are often lighter in body, with firm acidity, fine tannins, and mountain-grown precision. The best wines show red fruit, dried flowers, spice, and mineral notes.

Nebbiolo tasting notes:

Appearance:

• Pale ruby to garnet, often with orange reflections as it ages

Aroma:

• Fruit: Cherry, red currant, raspberry, dried strawberry
• Floral: Rose, violet, dried flowers
• Spices: Licorice, anise, clove
• Other: Leather, tobacco, tar, dried herbs, stone

Palate:

• Body: Medium-bodied
• Tannins: Firm but often fine-grained
• Acidity: High
• Finish: Long, with red fruit, spice, and savory notes

Food pairings:

Nebbiolo pairs well with braised beef, bresaola, pizzoccheri, mushroom dishes, game, and aged alpine cheeses.

Moscato di Scanzo is a rare red aromatic grape from the hills near Scanzorosciate in the province of Bergamo. It is used for Scanzo or Moscato di Scanzo DOCG, a sweet red passito wine made from dried grapes.

The wines are deeply aromatic, with red fruit, spice, floral notes, and a sweet but structured palate.

Moscato di Scanzo tasting notes:

Appearance:

• Deep ruby red to garnet

Aroma:

• Fruit: Cherry, plum, dried red berries
• Floral: Rose, violet
• Spices: Cinnamon, clove, incense
• Other: Sage, dried herbs, cocoa, balsamic notes

Palate:

• Body: Medium to full-bodied
• Sweetness: Sweet
• Tannins: Moderate
• Acidity: Medium to medium-high
• Finish: Long, aromatic, and spicy

Food pairings:

Moscato di Scanzo pairs well with blue cheese, aged cheeses, dark chocolate desserts, dried fruit, and spiced pastries.

Marzemino is grown in parts of eastern Lombardy, including areas near Garda and Mantova. It is typically used in red wines and blends, where it contributes floral aromas, red fruit, and a soft texture.

Marzemino tasting notes:

Appearance:

• Ruby red with violet reflections

Aroma:

• Fruit: Red cherry, raspberry, plum
• Floral: Violet
• Spices: Light pepper, sweet spice
• Other: Almond, herbs

Palate:

• Body: Light to medium-bodied
• Tannins: Soft to moderate
• Acidity: Medium
• Finish: Fresh, with red fruit and floral notes

Food pairings:

Marzemino pairs well with cured meats, stuffed pasta, roast poultry, lake fish in red wine preparations, and semi-soft cheeses.

Groppello is closely linked to the western side of Lake Garda, especially Valtenesi and Riviera del Garda Classico. It is often used for light red and rosé wines, including Chiaretto-style wines.

Groppello wines tend to be fresh, pale, and aromatic, with red berry flavors and gentle tannins.

Groppello tasting notes:

Appearance:

• Light ruby in red wines
• Pale pink to salmon in rosé wines

Aroma:

• Fruit: Strawberry, raspberry, red currant, cherry
• Floral: Rose, violet
• Spices: White pepper
• Other: Fresh herbs, almond

Palate:

• Body: Light to medium-bodied
• Tannins: Light to moderate
• Acidity: Medium
• Finish: Fresh, with red fruit and a lightly savory edge

Food pairings:

Groppello pairs well with lake fish, risotto, grilled vegetables, cured meats, and fresh cheeses.

Uva Rara is used as a blending grape in several Lombardy red wines, especially in Oltrepò Pavese and San Colombano al Lambro. It adds perfume, red fruit, and softness to blends with Croatina, Barbera, and Vespolina.

Uva Rara tasting notes:

Appearance:

• Ruby red

Aroma:

• Fruit: Red cherry, raspberry, wild strawberry
• Floral: Violet
• Spices: Light pepper
• Other: Fresh herbs, almond

Palate:

• Body: Light to medium-bodied
• Tannins: Soft
• Acidity: Medium
• Finish: Fresh and fruit-forward

Food pairings:

Uva Rara pairs well with salami, pasta with meat sauce, roasted poultry, and young cheeses.

Vespolina is a red grape used in small amounts in Lombardy blends, especially in Oltrepò Pavese and Valtellina-related wines. It is valued for spice, acidity, and aromatic lift.

Vespolina tasting notes:

Appearance:

• Ruby red

Aroma:

• Fruit: Red cherry, currant, raspberry
• Floral: Violet
• Spices: Black pepper, juniper
• Other: Herbs, earth

Palate:

• Body: Medium-bodied
• Tannins: Moderate
• Acidity: Medium to high
• Finish: Spicy and savory

Food pairings:

Vespolina pairs well with cured meats, roasted pork, polenta, mushroom dishes, and aged cheeses.

White Grapes

Chardonnay is one of the key grapes in Lombardy’s traditional-method sparkling wines, especially Franciacorta and Oltrepò Pavese Metodo Classico. It is also used for still white wines in areas such as Curtefranca, Garda, and other DOC and IGP zones.

In sparkling wines, Chardonnay adds citrus, apple, structure, and aging potential. In still wines, it can range from fresh and mineral to fuller-bodied versions with oak influence.

Chardonnay tasting notes:

Appearance:

• Pale straw yellow to gold

Aroma:

• Fruit: Lemon, green apple, pear, peach
• Floral: White flowers
• Spices: Vanilla in oak-aged versions
• Other: Almond, bread crust, butter, mineral notes

Palate:

• Body: Medium to full-bodied
• Acidity: Medium to high
• Texture: Crisp in sparkling wines; rounder in still wines
• Finish: Citrus, orchard fruit, and mineral notes

Food pairings:

Chardonnay pairs well with lake fish, risotto, roast chicken, creamy pasta, soft cheeses, and seafood.

Pinot Bianco is used in Lombardy for sparkling and still white wines. In Franciacorta, it may be part of the blend, though Chardonnay and Pinot Nero are more prominent. In still wines, Pinot Bianco often gives freshness, apple notes, and a clean structure.

Pinot Bianco tasting notes:

Appearance:

• Pale straw yellow

Aroma:

• Fruit: Green apple, pear, lemon
• Floral: White blossom
• Other: Almond, fresh herbs, mineral notes

Palate:

• Body: Light to medium-bodied
• Acidity: Medium to high
• Texture: Clean and direct
• Finish: Fresh, with citrus and orchard fruit

Food pairings:

Pinot Bianco pairs well with lake fish, fresh cheeses, vegetable risotto, seafood, and light pasta dishes.

Riesling appears in Lombardy in two forms: Riesling Renano and Riesling Italico. Riesling Renano can produce more aromatic and structured wines, while Riesling Italico is often lighter, fresher, and more widely used in everyday white wines, especially in Oltrepò Pavese.

Riesling tasting notes:

Appearance:

• Pale straw yellow with greenish reflections

Aroma:

• Fruit: Lime, lemon, green apple, peach
• Floral: White flowers
• Other: Mineral notes, herbs, petrol notes in mature Riesling Renano

Palate:

• Body: Light to medium-bodied
• Acidity: High
• Texture: Fresh and linear
• Finish: Citrus, stone fruit, and mineral notes

Food pairings:

Riesling pairs well with freshwater fish, pork, alpine cheeses, spicy dishes, and vegetable-based pasta.

Trebbiano di Soave is used in the Lugana area around Lake Garda, where it is closely associated with the local Turbiana grape. It produces dry white wines with citrus, almond, and mineral notes, often with good texture and aging potential.

Trebbiano di Soave tasting notes:

Appearance:

• Pale straw yellow to gold with age

Aroma:

• Fruit: Lemon, green apple, pear, white peach
• Floral: White flowers
• Other: Almond, herbs, mineral notes, light honey with age

Palate:

• Body: Medium-bodied
• Acidity: Medium to high
• Texture: Smooth and structured
• Finish: Citrus, almond, and mineral notes

Food pairings:

Trebbiano di Soave pairs well with lake fish, seafood pasta, risotto, white meats, and fresh cheeses.

Pinot Grigio is used in several Lombardy denominations, especially in the Oltrepò Pavese area and broader IGP wines. It usually produces dry white wines with light body, crisp acidity, and straightforward fruit.

Pinot Grigio tasting notes:

Appearance:

• Pale straw yellow

Aroma:

• Fruit: Lemon, pear, green apple, peach
• Floral: White flowers
• Other: Almond, mineral notes

Palate:

• Body: Light to medium-bodied
• Acidity: Medium to high
• Texture: Crisp and clean
• Finish: Fresh, with citrus and pear notes

Food pairings:

Pinot Grigio pairs well with seafood, salads, lake fish, grilled vegetables, and light pasta dishes.

Sauvignon is grown in several Lombardy DOC and IGP areas, including Oltrepò Pavese and Garda-related zones. It is usually made as a dry white wine with bright acidity, green fruit, citrus, and herbal notes.

Sauvignon tasting notes:

Appearance:

• Pale straw yellow with greenish reflections

Aroma:

• Fruit: Grapefruit, lemon, lime, green apple
• Herbal: Grass, sage, tomato leaf
• Other: Mineral notes, elderflower

Palate:

• Body: Light to medium-bodied
• Acidity: High
• Texture: Fresh and direct
• Finish: Citrus, herbs, and mineral notes

Food pairings:

Sauvignon pairs well with goat cheese, asparagus, herb-based pasta, seafood, and vegetable risotto.

Pinot Grigio is used in several Lombardy denominations, especially in the Oltrepò Pavese area and broader IGP wines. It usually produces dry white wines with light body, crisp acidity, and straightforward fruit.

Pinot Grigio tasting notes:

Appearance:

• Pale straw yellow

Aroma:

• Fruit: Lemon, pear, green apple, peach
• Floral: White flowers
• Other: Almond, mineral notes

Palate:

• Body: Light to medium-bodied
• Acidity: Medium to high
• Texture: Crisp and clean
• Finish: Fresh, with citrus and pear notes

Food pairings:

Pinot Grigio pairs well with seafood, salads, lake fish, grilled vegetables, and light pasta dishes.

Garganega is permitted in parts of the Garda area, where Lombardy overlaps with wine zones more commonly associated with nearby Veneto. In Lombardy, it is usually used for dry white wines or blends that emphasize freshness, citrus, almond, and floral notes.

Garganega tasting notes:

Appearance:

• Pale straw yellow

Aroma:

• Fruit: Lemon, pear, apple, peach
• Floral: White flowers, chamomile
• Other: Almond, herbs, mineral notes

Palate:

• Body: Light to medium-bodied
• Acidity: Medium
• Texture: Clean and lightly rounded
• Finish: Almond, citrus, and soft floral notes

Food pairings:

Garganega pairs well with lake fish, seafood, fresh cheeses, vegetable dishes, and risotto.

Lombardy has five Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (DOCG) wines, 21 Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC) wines, and 15 Indicazione Geografica Protetta (IGP) areas. These designations cover traditional-method sparkling wines, Nebbiolo-based Alpine reds, lake-influenced whites and rosés, sweet passito wines, and everyday regional bottlings.

The best-known Lombardy wine styles include Franciacorta, Oltrepò Pavese Metodo Classico, Valtellina Superiore, Sforzato di Valtellina, Lugana, Bonarda dell’Oltrepò Pavese, Sangue di Giuda dell’Oltrepò Pavese, and Moscato di Scanzo.

DOCG Wines

Franciacorta is produced in the province of Brescia, in the hills between the southern shore of Lake Iseo and the city of Brescia. It is Lombardy’s best-known traditional-method sparkling wine and is made from grapes grown within the Franciacorta production area.

Franciacorta may be produced as:

• Spumante
• Spumante rosé
• Spumante cremant

The principal grapes are Chardonnay, Pinot Nero, and Pinot Bianco, with Erbamat also permitted in limited amounts. The wines are made with secondary fermentation in bottle, the same general method used for Champagne and other traditional-method sparkling wines.

Franciacorta is known for citrus, apple, almond, bread crust, and fine bubbles. Rosé versions often show red berry notes from Pinot Nero.

Oltrepò Pavese Metodo Classico is produced in the province of Pavia. The area lies south of the Po River and is one of Italy’s important zones for Pinot Nero.

Oltrepò Pavese Metodo Classico may be produced as:

• Rosé
• Cremant
• Pinot Nero
• Pinot Nero Rosé

These wines are made by the traditional method, with Pinot Nero playing the central role. Chardonnay, Pinot Bianco, and Pinot Grigio may also be used depending on the style.

The wines often show red apple, citrus, red currant, brioche, almond, and mineral notes. Pinot Nero-based versions tend to have more structure and savory depth than lighter sparkling wines.

Scanzo or Moscato di Scanzo is produced in the province of Bergamo, especially around Scanzorosciate. It is one of Lombardy’s smallest and most distinctive DOCG wines.

This wine is made from Moscato di Scanzo, a red aromatic grape. The grapes are dried before fermentation, producing a sweet red passito wine with concentrated fruit, spice, and floral aromas.

Moscato di Scanzo commonly shows cherry, plum, rose, violet, cinnamon, clove, sage, and cocoa. It is usually served in small pours with aged cheese, blue cheese, dark chocolate, or dried fruit desserts.

Sforzato di Valtellina, also called Sfursat or Sfurzat di Valtellina, is produced in the province of Sondrio. It comes from Valtellina, an Alpine valley where Nebbiolo is locally known as Chiavennasca.

Sforzato is made from dried grapes. This method concentrates sugar, acidity, tannin, and flavor before fermentation, creating a dry red wine with higher alcohol and more intensity than standard Valtellina reds.

Sforzato di Valtellina is typically full-bodied for the region, with notes of dried cherry, plum, rose, spice, tobacco, leather, and dried herbs. It pairs well with braised meats, game, aged alpine cheeses, and mushroom dishes.

Valtellina Superiore is produced in the province of Sondrio from Nebbiolo, locally called Chiavennasca. It represents the more selective vineyard areas of Valtellina and must be aged before release.

Valtellina Superiore may be produced as:

• Rosso
• Riserva

The label may also indicate one of the recognized subzones:

• Inferno
• Grumello
• Maroggia
• Sassella
• Valgella
• Stagaflassi, for wine bottled in Switzerland

Valtellina Superiore wines are usually lighter in body than many Nebbiolo wines from Piedmont, but they still show firm acidity, fine tannins, and strong aging potential. Common notes include red cherry, dried flowers, rose, herbs, tobacco, leather, and stony mineral character.

Riserva versions require longer aging and often show more developed notes of dried fruit, spice, and earth.

DOC Wines

Bonarda dell’Oltrepò Pavese is produced in the province of Pavia. Despite the name, the wine is usually based on Croatina, which is locally associated with Bonarda.

Bonarda dell’Oltrepò Pavese may be still, frizzante, or sparkling depending on the producer and style. The wines commonly show blackberry, plum, violet, almond, and light spice.

Botticino is produced in the province of Brescia. The production area sits east of the city of Brescia, where red wines are made mainly from Barbera, Marzemino, Schiava Gentile, and Sangiovese.

Botticino wines are usually dry reds with red fruit, spice, and moderate structure. They are often suited to local meat dishes, aged cheeses, and pasta with ragù.

Buttafuoco dell’Oltrepò Pavese is produced in the province of Pavia. It is a red wine from Oltrepò Pavese, traditionally made from Croatina, Barbera, Uva Rara, and Vespolina.

The wine is usually dry, structured, and darker in profile than lighter Oltrepò reds. Common notes include black cherry, plum, spice, dried herbs, and earth.

Capriano del Colle is produced in the province of Brescia. The DOC covers wines from the Monte Netto area, southwest of Brescia.

The denomination includes red, white, and rosé wines. Reds are often based on Marzemino, Sangiovese, Barbera, and Merlot, while whites may include Trebbiano, Chardonnay, and other permitted varieties.

Casteggio is produced in the province of Pavia, within the Oltrepò Pavese area. It is tied to the town of Casteggio, one of the historic wine centers of the zone.

Casteggio DOC wines are red wines based mainly on Barbera, Croatina, Pinot Nero, and Uva Rara. They tend to be dry, medium-bodied, and food-friendly, with red fruit, dark fruit, spice, and moderate tannins.

Cellatica is produced in the province of Brescia, in hills close to the city. It is a small red wine DOC based on local and regional grapes.

Cellatica wines are usually dry reds with red cherry, plum, spice, and a medium-bodied structure. They are best suited to cured meats, roasted poultry, pork, and medium-aged cheeses.

Curtefranca is produced in the province of Brescia. This denomination covers still wines from the Franciacorta area.

Curtefranca was formerly connected to the Terre di Franciacorta name. The current designation helps separate the still wines of the area from Franciacorta DOCG sparkling wines.

Curtefranca Bianco is usually based on Chardonnay and Pinot Bianco. Curtefranca Rosso is typically based on Bordeaux varieties such as Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot, with other permitted grapes depending on the style.

Garda is an inter-regional DOC produced in the provinces of Brescia and Mantova in Lombardy and Verona in Veneto. It covers a broad area around Lake Garda.

The DOC includes still, sparkling, white, red, and rosé wines. Common grapes include Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Garganega, Pinot Nero, Cabernet, Merlot, Marzemino, and Groppello, depending on the style.

Garda Colli Mantovani is produced in the province of Mantova. The vineyards sit in the morainic hills south of Lake Garda.

The DOC includes white, red, and rosé wines. Local styles often use Garganega, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Merlot, Cabernet, and regional red grapes.

Lambrusco Mantovano is produced in the province of Mantova. It is Lombardy’s main Lambrusco DOC and reflects Mantova’s connection with the Po Valley wine culture.

The wines are usually red or rosé, often lightly sparkling. They can range from dry to softer styles, with red berry fruit, violet, and a fresh finish.

Lugana is an inter-regional DOC produced in the provinces of Brescia in Lombardy and Verona in Veneto. The production area sits near the southern shore of Lake Garda.

Lugana is a white wine based on Turbiana, a local grape closely associated with Trebbiano di Soave. The wines are known for citrus, white peach, almond, mineral notes, and a smooth texture. Some versions are released young, while others can age well.

Oltrepò Pavese is produced in the province of Pavia. The area lies south of the Po River and accounts for a major share of Lombardy wine production.

The DOC includes red, white, rosé, sparkling, frizzante, passito, and varietal wines. Important grapes include Pinot Nero, Croatina, Barbera, Uva Rara, Vespolina, Riesling Italico, Riesling Renano, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Moscato, and Sauvignon.

Oltrepò Pavese is especially important for Pinot Nero. The grape is used for traditional-method sparkling wine, still red wine, rosé, and white vinifications.

Oltrepò Pavese Pinot Grigio is produced in the province of Pavia. It focuses on dry white wines made from Pinot Grigio grown in the Oltrepò Pavese area.

The wines are usually light to medium-bodied, with citrus, pear, apple, almond, and a clean finish. They work well with seafood, lake fish, salads, and light pasta dishes.

Pinot Nero dell’Oltrepò Pavese is produced in the province of Pavia. The DOC highlights still Pinot Nero wines from one of Italy’s most important Pinot Nero growing areas.

The wines usually show red cherry, raspberry, strawberry, violet, spice, and light earthy notes. They are often lighter than many Italian reds, with fine tannins and fresh acidity.

Riviera del Garda Classico is produced in the province of Brescia, along the western side of Lake Garda. It is also associated with the older name Riviera del Garda Bresciano.

The DOC includes red, white, and rosé wines, with Groppello playing an important role in local reds and Chiaretto-style rosés. The wines often show fresh red fruit, herbs, almond, and lake-influenced brightness.

San Colombano al Lambro is produced in the provinces of Lodi, Milano, and Pavia. It is centered around the comune of San Colombano al Lambro, southwest of Milan.

The red wine is based mainly on Croatina, Barbera, and Uva Rara, with other local red grapes permitted. These wines are usually dry, medium-bodied, and marked by red fruit, dark fruit, and moderate tannins.

San Martino della Battaglia is an inter-regional DOC produced in the provinces of Brescia in Lombardy and Verona in Veneto. The area sits near Lake Garda.

The DOC is best known for white wines based on Tuchì, historically associated with Tocai Friulano. The wines are typically dry, fresh, and lightly aromatic, with notes of citrus, almond, herbs, and white flowers.

Sangue di Giuda dell’Oltrepò Pavese is produced in the province of Pavia. It is a red wine from Oltrepò Pavese, usually made from Croatina, Barbera, Uva Rara, and other permitted local grapes.

The wine is often made in a lightly sparkling or sweet style, though exact versions vary by producer. Common notes include cherry, raspberry, plum, violet, and spice. It is often served with fruit desserts, pastries, or blue cheese.

Terre del Colleoni, also called Colleoni, is produced in the province of Bergamo. It covers wines from the Bergamo area and gives producers a broader DOC framework than the more specific Scanzo and Valcalepio denominations.

The DOC includes red, white, rosé, sparkling, and varietal wines depending on the style. Grapes may include international varieties and local grapes grown in the province.

Valcalepio is produced in the province of Bergamo. The area lies in the foothills between the Bergamo plain and the lower Alpine slopes.

The DOC includes red, white, and Moscato Passito wines. Red wines are often based on Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, while whites commonly use Pinot Bianco, Chardonnay, and Pinot Grigio. Moscato Passito versions are aromatic and show dried fruit, honey, and spice.

Valtellina Rosso is produced in the province of Sondrio. It is the basic DOC wine of Valtellina and is made primarily from Nebbiolo, locally called Chiavennasca.

The vineyards sit on steep, south-facing slopes along the Adda River. Many sites require hand work because of the terraces and mountain terrain.

Valtellina Rosso wines are typically dry, medium-bodied, and less forceful than many Nebbiolo wines from Piedmont. Common notes include red cherry, rose, dried herbs, spice, and stone.

IGP Wines

Alpi Retiche is produced in Lombardy’s northern Alpine area. It gives producers flexibility for wines made outside the stricter Valtellina DOC and DOCG rules.

The wines may include red, white, and rosé styles, depending on the producer and permitted grapes. Mountain conditions often bring fresh acidity, moderate body, and clear fruit.

Alto Mincio is produced in the province of Mantova. The area sits near the Mincio River and the southern side of Lake Garda.

Alto Mincio may include:

• Bianco
• Bianco Frizzante
• Bianco Passito
• Rosato
• Rosato Frizzante
• Rosso
• Rosso Frizzante
• Rosso Passito
• Rosso Novello

The wines are generally regional bottlings made for flexible, everyday use. Styles range from fresh white wines and light rosés to young reds, frizzante wines, and passito versions.

Benaco Bresciano is produced in the province of Brescia. The name refers to Benaco, the historical name for Lake Garda.

Benaco Bresciano may include:

• Bianco
• Bianco Frizzante
• Rosso
• Rosso Novello

These wines are tied to the Brescia side of Lake Garda and may include local and international varieties. The whites are usually fresh and citrus-driven, while the reds tend to be light to medium-bodied.

Bergamasca is produced in the province of Bergamo. It covers a broad area around Bergamo and its surrounding hills.

Bergamasca may include:

• Bianco
• Rosato
• Rosso
• Rosso Moscato
• Rosso Novello

The IGP gives producers flexibility beyond the stricter DOC and DOCG rules. Wines may include still whites, rosés, reds, young novello wines, and Moscato-based red styles.

Collina del Milanese is produced in the provinces of Lodi, Milano, and Pavia. It covers areas south and southeast of Milan, including hills near San Colombano al Lambro.

Collina del Milanese may include:

• Bianco
• Bianco Frizzante
• Bianco Passito
• Rosato
• Rosato Frizzante
• Rosso
• Rosso Frizzante
• Rosso Novello

The wines are usually regional bottlings based on local grapes such as Croatina, Barbera, and Uva Rara, along with permitted white varieties.

Montenetto di Brescia is produced in the province of Brescia. It is connected to the Monte Netto area southwest of the city.

Montenetto di Brescia may include:

• Bianco
• Bianco Frizzante
• Rosso
• Rosso Novello

The wines often overlap in geography with areas known for Capriano del Colle. They may include fresh whites, simple reds, and young novello wines.

Provincia di Mantova is produced in the province of Mantova. It covers a wide area in southeastern Lombardy, near the Po Valley and the border with Emilia-Romagna and Veneto.

Provincia di Mantova may include:

• Bianco
• Bianco Frizzante
• Bianco Passito
• Rosato
• Rosato Frizzante
• Rosso
• Rosso Frizzante
• Rosso Passito
• Rosso Novello

These wines are usually flexible regional bottlings, including still, lightly sparkling, passito, and young red styles.

Provincia di Pavia is produced in the province of Pavia. It covers the same province that includes Oltrepò Pavese, one of Lombardy’s most important wine areas.

Provincia di Pavia may include:

• Bianco
• Bianco Frizzante
• Rosato
• Rosato Frizzante
• Rosso
• Rosso Frizzante
• Rosso Novello

The wines may use local and international grapes, including Croatina, Barbera, Pinot Nero, Riesling, Chardonnay, and Pinot Grigio.

Quistello is produced in the province of Mantova. It is tied to the lower Mantova area near the Po River.

Quistello may include:

• Bianco
• Bianco Frizzante
• Rosato
• Rosato Frizzante
• Rosso
• Rosso Frizzante
• Rosso Novello

The wines are generally regional still and frizzante bottlings, often suited to local Mantovan dishes, cured meats, and stuffed pasta.

Ronchi di Brescia is produced in the province of Brescia. The name refers to the hills around Brescia.

Ronchi di Brescia may include:

• Bianco
• Bianco Frizzante
• Bianco Passito
• Rosso
• Rosso Novello

The wines are usually small-scale regional bottlings, with fresh whites, dry reds, and occasional passito styles.

Ronchi Varesini is produced in the province of Varese. It covers wines from the hills in northwestern Lombardy, near the Swiss border and the lake district.

The IGP may include white, red, and rosé styles. Production is limited compared with Lombardy’s larger wine zones, but the designation gives local growers a regional label for small-scale bottlings.

Sabbioneta is produced in the province of Mantova. It is connected to the area around Sabbioneta, a planned Renaissance town in southeastern Lombardy.

Sabbioneta may include:

• Bianco
• Bianco Frizzante
• Rosato
• Rosato Frizzante
• Rosso
• Rosso Frizzante\
• Rosso Novello

The wines are typically regional Mantova bottlings, including light whites, rosés, red wines, and frizzante styles.

Sebino is produced in the province of Brescia, near Lake Iseo. It overlaps geographically with areas around Franciacorta and nearby wine zones.

Sebino may include:

• Bianco Passito
• Rosso
• Rosso Novello

Sebino IGP gives producers flexibility for wines that fall outside DOC and DOCG rules. Reds may include both local and international grapes, while passito white wines are made in smaller quantities.

Terre Lariane is produced in the area around Lake Como and nearby parts of northern Lombardy. The name refers to Lario, the historical name for Lake Como.

The IGP may include red, white, and rosé wines, depending on the producer and grape varieties. Production is small compared with Franciacorta, Oltrepò Pavese, and Valtellina.

Valcamonica is produced in the province of Brescia. The area follows the Camonica Valley north of Lake Iseo.

Valcamonica may include:

• Bianco
• Bianco Passito
• Rosso
• Rosso with varietal indication, including Marzemino or Merlot

The wines are mountain-influenced regional bottlings, usually produced in small quantities compared with Lombardy’s larger wine areas.

Wine producers in Lombardy range from large sparkling wine houses in Franciacorta to small family estates working steep terraces in Valtellina. Oltrepò Pavese producers often focus on Pinot Nero, Croatina, Barbera, and traditional-method sparkling wine, while the Lake Garda area includes producers of Lugana, Chiaretto, and fresh regional whites.

The examples below are not a complete list of wineries in the region, but they offer a practical starting point for tasting the main styles of Lombardy wine.

Sparkling Wines

• Producer: Ca’ del Bosco
• Wine: Cuvée Prestige
• Style: Franciacorta DOCG
• Grapes: Chardonnay, Pinot Nero, Pinot Bianco

Ca’ del Bosco is one of the best-known producers in Franciacorta. Cuvée Prestige is a traditional-method sparkling wine with citrus, apple, almond, bread crust, and fine bubbles.

• Producer: Bellavista
• Wine: Alma
• Style: Franciacorta DOCG
• Grapes: Chardonnay, Pinot Nero, Pinot Bianco

Bellavista is a major Franciacorta estate based near Erbusco. Alma is one of its core sparkling wines, known for orchard fruit, citrus, floral notes, and a clean, structured finish.

• Producer: Guido Berlucchi
• Wine: Franciacorta ’61
• Style: Franciacorta DOCG
• Grapes: Chardonnay and Pinot Nero

Guido Berlucchi played a central role in the development of Franciacorta sparkling wine. Franciacorta ’61 refers to the year 1961, when the estate released one of the first traditional-method sparkling wines from the area.

• Producer: Monsupello
• Wine: Metodo Classico
• Style: Oltrepò Pavese Metodo Classico
• Grapes: Pinot Nero, Chardonnay

Monsupello is based in Oltrepò Pavese, one of Italy’s important Pinot Nero areas. Its traditional-method sparkling wines often show citrus, red apple, almond, and a savory Pinot Nero character.

White Wines

• Producer: Ca’ Lojera
• Wine: Lugana
• Style: Lugana DOC
• Grape: Turbiana

Ca’ Lojera is located near Lake Garda and is known for Lugana wines made from Turbiana. The wines typically show citrus, peach, almond, and mineral notes.

Producer: Ottella

Wine: Lugana

Style: Lugana DOC

Grape: Turbiana

Ottella produces Lugana from vineyards near the southern end of Lake Garda. The wines are usually fresh, textured, and marked by citrus, white peach, herbs, and almond.

Producer: Ca’ Maiol

Wine: Lugana

Style: Lugana DOC

Grape: Turbiana

Ca’ Maiol is another well-known Lugana producer near Lake Garda. Its wines often show lemon, pear, stone fruit, almond, and a smooth finish.

Rose Wines

• Producer: Costaripa
• Wine: RosaMara
• Style: Valtenesi Chiaretto
• Grapes: Groppello, Marzemino, Sangiovese, Barbera

Costaripa is based in the Valtenesi area near Lake Garda. RosaMara is a dry rosé with red berry, citrus, floral, and almond notes.

• Producer: Pasini San Giovanni
• Wine: Il Chiaretto
• Style: Valtenesi Chiaretto
• Grapes: Groppello and other local red grapes

Pasini San Giovanni produces wines near Lake Garda, including Chiaretto-style rosé. Il Chiaretto is usually fresh and dry, with strawberry, raspberry, rose, and light herbal notes.

Red Wines

• Producer: Ar.Pe.Pe.
• Wine: Valtellina Superiore Sassella
• Style: Valtellina Superiore DOCG
• Grape: Nebbiolo, locally called Chiavennasca

Ar.Pe.Pe. is one of the most respected producers in Valtellina. Its Sassella wines show the mountain side of Nebbiolo, with red cherry, rose, dried herbs, fine tannins, and strong acidity.

• Producer: Nino Negri
• Wine: Sfursat 5 Stelle
• Style: Sforzato di Valtellina DOCG
• Grape: Nebbiolo, locally called Chiavennasca

Nino Negri is a historic Valtellina producer. Sfursat 5 Stelle is made from dried Nebbiolo grapes and usually shows dried cherry, plum, spice, tobacco, and firm structure.

• Producer: Mamete Prevostini
• Wine: Valtellina Superiore
• Style: Valtellina Superiore DOCG
• Grape: Nebbiolo, locally called Chiavennasca

Mamete Prevostini works with Nebbiolo in Valtellina. Its Valtellina Superiore wines often show red fruit, flowers, herbs, and mineral notes, with a medium body and firm acidity.

• Producer: Conte Vistarino
• Wine: Pinot Nero
• Style: Pinot Nero dell’Oltrepò Pavese DOC
• Grape: Pinot Nero

Conte Vistarino is one of the historic names associated with Pinot Nero in Oltrepò Pavese. Its still Pinot Nero wines often show cherry, raspberry, spice, and light earthy notes.

• Producer: Tenuta Travaglino
• Wine: Pinot Nero
• Style: Pinot Nero dell’Oltrepò Pavese DOC
• Grape: Pinot Nero

Tenuta Travaglino works in the Oltrepò Pavese area, where Pinot Nero is used for both still and sparkling wines. Still versions often show red fruit, fine tannins, and fresh acidity.

• Producer: Calatroni
• Wine: Buttafuoco
• Style: Buttafuoco dell’Oltrepò Pavese DOC
• Grapes: Croatina, Barbera, Uva Rara, Vespolina

Calatroni produces wines in Oltrepò Pavese, including traditional-method sparkling wines and regional reds. Buttafuoco is usually structured and dark-fruited, with plum, black cherry, spice, and dried herb notes.

Sweet Wines

• Producer: La Brugherata
• Wine: Moscato di Scanzo
• Style: Scanzo or Moscato di Scanzo DOCG
• Grape: Moscato di Scanzo

La Brugherata produces Moscato di Scanzo from the hills near Scanzorosciate. The wine is a sweet red passito with cherry, plum, rose, cinnamon, dried herbs, and cocoa notes.

• Producer: Biava
• Wine: Moscato di Scanzo
• Style: Scanzo or Moscato di Scanzo DOCG
• Grape: Moscato di Scanzo

Biava is another producer associated with Moscato di Scanzo. These wines are usually served in small pours with aged cheese, blue cheese, dried fruit, or chocolate desserts.