Lombardy

• Chardonnay & Pinot Nero: The backbone of Lombardy's renowned sparkling wines, offering notes of citrus, white peach, red berries, and brioche; Pinot Bianco adds a floral lift in select blends.
• Nebbiolo (Chiavennasca): The signature grape of Valtellina, producing refined, aromatic reds with rose petal, sour cherry, alpine herbs, and remarkable aging potential.
• Croatina & Barbera: Regional red staples, forming the heart of Oltrepò Pavese reds like Buttafuoco and Bonarda; expect juicy raspberry, blackberry, dark cherry, and subtle spice, with a food-friendly character.
• Turbiana (Verdicchio): Indigenous white grape near Lake Garda, crafting Lugana wines with crisp acidity, green apple, citrus, white flowers, and a distinct saline minerality.
• Groppello: Local red variety featured in Valtènesi reds and Chiaretto rosé, delivering wild strawberry, cherry, rose petal, and savory spice, balanced by lively acidity.
• Franciacorta DOCG: Metodo Classico sparkling wines (Brut, Satèn, Rosé) with creamy texture, toasty and almond notes, and refined fruit flavors.
• Oltrepò Pavese Metodo Classico DOCG: Pinot Nero-focused sparkling wines, structured and creamy, with red apple, raspberry, and brioche nuances.
• Valtellina Superiore DOCG: Elegant, mountain-influenced Nebbiolo reds featuring floral, sour cherry, and herbal notes, marked by refined tannins and fresh acidity.
• Sforzato di Valtellina DOCG: Powerful, dry red from dried Nebbiolo grapes; concentrated flavors of dried cherry, prune, licorice, and tobacco with a silky texture.
• Buttafuoco & Bonarda dell’Oltrepò Pavese DOC: Robust to easygoing reds, often with a slight sparkle, featuring dark fruit, plum, and spice, ideal for pairing with local fare.
• Riviera del Garda Classico Chiaretto DOC: Dry, savory rosé blending Groppello and other local reds, known for its crisp, refreshing profile and delicate berry, floral, and spice notes.

In Lombardy, sustainable winemaking has evolved into a coordinated regional effort, emphasizing the long-term vitality and quality of its wines. The Consorzio Vini Oltrepò Pavese initiated a project in 2015 aiming for a sustainable winemaking environment by 2030. This project includes utilizing cleaner energy sources, eco-friendly methods, and promoting gender equality, which collectively aim to enhance the region's wine quality and redefine its brand. An increasing number of vineyards are pursuing official certifications, including the EU Organic logo and the rigorous biodynamic certification from organizations like Demeter, fostering a holistic approach that treats the vineyard as a self-sustaining ecosystem. Lombardy's commitment to sustainability also embraces the natural wine movement, focusing on spontaneous fermentation and avoiding additives. Pioneering estates in Franciacorta and Oltrepò Pavese are leading the charge with organic farming and innovative technologies, such as agrivoltaic systems that harness clean energy. This dedication not only protects the environment but also ensures the production of genuine, high-quality wines. Through these efforts, Lombardy is carving a path toward a sustainable future, reinforcing its status as a region where tradition, innovation, and environmental stewardship harmoniously coexist.

Lombardy, with its rich winemaking history and diverse landscapes, stands as a premier destination for wine tourism. Situated near Milan and the stunning Italian Lake District, the region offers a seamless blend of wine, gastronomy, and culture. Visitors can explore over 1,500 kilometers of well-marked food and wine routes, known as the Strade del Vino e dei Sapori. These routes connect wineries with local food producers and historical sites, providing a holistic experience that transcends simple wine tasting. The Strada del Franciacorta, for example, cuts through the heart of the DOCG region, offering travelers a taste of Lombardy's renowned Franciacorta sparkling wines amidst breathtaking scenery. The region's wine tourism is further enriched by diverse accommodations and activities. Guests can choose from luxury wine resorts, historic manor suites, and traditional farm stays, each offering a unique glimpse into Lombardy's winemaking culture. Wineries host guided food and wine pairings, vineyard picnics, and cooking classes, allowing visitors to engage directly with the local flavors. Lombardy's wine festivals, like the Festival Franciacorta in Cantina, offer dynamic events where wine enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the local culture. Conveniently accessible through international airports in Milan and Bergamo, Lombardy is perfectly poised to welcome wine lovers and offer them a profound exploration of its vinous treasures.