An Introduction to Valle d’Aosta: Italy’s Hidden Gem of Heroic Viticulture
- Ipek Leni Candan
- Aug 3, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: Aug 27, 2024
Valle d’Aosta, often overshadowed by Italy’s more famous wine regions, is a hidden treasure for wine enthusiasts. Nestled in the Alps, this small yet extraordinary area is renowned for its heroic viticulture—a labour of love where winemaking is as much about battling the rugged terrain and harsh climate as it is about crafting unique wines.
Tucked between Piemonte, Switzerland and France, Valle d’Aosta is Italy’s smallest region and its smallest wine producer, yielding only about 1.5 million bottles annually. Despite its size, the region boasts an impressive diversity of indigenous grape varieties that can’t be found anywhere else, making its wines some of Italy’s most intriguing. Most of these wines are consumed locally, adding to their rarity and allure.
The region's winemaking heritage dates back to the Bronze Age, evidenced by ancient grape seeds found at the Saint-Martin-de-Corléans archaeological site in Aosta. Roman-era finds further confirm the long-standing tradition of viticulture in the area. In 1945, Valle d’Aosta gained autonomy within Italy, but its close ties to France and Switzerland are still evident. This cultural duality is reflected in the region's two official languages—Italian and French—and influences everything from its cuisine to its wine.
Valle d'Aosta’s winemaking is classified under a single DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) that encompasses seven area sub-denominations and 19 grape sub-denominations. This includes a blend of indigenous varieties as well as those of French, Swiss and Italian origin.
Among the indigenous grapes, the red Petit Rouge, Cornalin and Fumin, along with the white Prié Blanc, stand out. These grapes thrive on the slopes of Monte Bianco, in some of Europe’s highest vineyards, which reach up to 1,200m above sea level. The altitude is so extreme that phylloxera, the pest that devastated much of Europe’s vineyards in the 19th century, never reached these heights. As a result, many vines in the Upper Valley are still on their original, ungrafted rootstocks.
Valle d’Aosta also hosts international varieties like Petite Arvine and Pinot Noir, which have adapted well to the alpine conditions. Nebbiolo, known locally as Picotendro, is another noteworthy variety, producing wines that are a testament to the region’s diverse terroir.
In 2013, around 65% of Valle d’Aosta’s wine production was classified as DOC, with 85% of production being red wines and 15% white. The region has about 400 hectares of vineyards, many of which are family-owned, with nearly 70% of growers cultivating small plots of 0.2 hectares or less.
The Art of Heroic Viticulture
Valle d’Aosta’s vineyards are predominantly mountainous, with 95% located on steep slopes and only 5% on the plains surrounding the Dora Baltea River. The region spans approximately 3,250 square kilometres, with an average altitude of 950m above sea level.
One of the most striking aspects of this region is its vine-training techniques, which are tailored to the extreme landscape. Vines are often grown on terraces supported by dry-stone walls or on pergolas. In Donnas, for example, the vines are trained on three-metre-high wooden pergolas, a method that helps the Nebbiolo grapes ripen fully. In contrast, the low pergolas of Morgex et La Salle are designed to keep Prié Blanc grapes close to the ground, benefiting from the radiant heat while being shielded from the intense high-altitude sun and hailstorms. These terraces and pergolas worked by hand and costly to maintain, a testament to the dedication required for heroic viticulture.
The region’s unique microclimate also plays a significant role in shaping its wines. The Alps create a rain shadow, reducing humidity and lowering disease pressure on the vines. The strong downslope Foehn winds and high diurnal range (the difference between day and night temperatures) further influence the character of the wines, making elevation a key factor in the terroir of each vineyard.
Diverse and Distinctive Grape Varieties
Valle d’Aosta is home to 38 recognised grape varieties, with a fascinating array of native reds such as Bonda, Cornalin, Crovassa, Fumin, Mayolet, Ner d’Ala, Neyret, Petit Rouge, Premetta (Prié Rouge), Roussin, Vien De Nus and Vuillermin. Prié Blanc is the only native white variety.
Some of the region’s most distinctive wines include:
Nebbiolo from Donnas: Elegant and floral, showcasing the region’s unique take on this renowned variety.
Petit Rouge-based wines from Torrette, Enfer d’Arvier and around Aosta: These wines offer a vibrant, fruity character with a touch of alpine freshness.
Cornalin: Light and aromatic, this red wine is perfect for those who appreciate delicate yet expressive flavours.
Fumin: Known for its structured and spicy profile, Fumin is a must-try for those who enjoy bold red wines.
Moscato dessert wines from Chambave: Sweet and aromatic with flavours of alpine herbs, these wines are a delightful treat.
Prié Blanc still and sparkling wines from Morgex: Crisp and refreshing, these wines are a testament to the versatility of Valle d’Aosta’s only indigenous white grape.
Valle d’Aosta’s wines are a true reflection of the region’s rugged beauty and rich history. Each bottle tells a story of resilience, tradition, and the passion of the people who cultivate these high-altitude vineyards. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just beginning to explore the world of wine, Valle d’Aosta offers a unique experience that’s not to be missed.
