Pelaverga di Verduno DOC is a red-wine denomination from a tightly defined area of the Langhe in Piedmont, centred on the village of Verduno and extending into neighbouring hillside zones. Its vineyards occupy gentle slopes and airy ridges at the southern edge of the Roero and Langhe landscape. Soils are largely composed of calcareous marl, sand and clay, combining drainage, mineral definition and an ability to retain useful water reserves. A continental climate, with cold winters, warm summers and pronounced day-to-night temperature variation, supports gradual ripening while preserving aromatic freshness.
The defining grape is Pelaverga Piccolo, an ancient local variety clearly distinct from Pelaverga Grosso. It produces thin-skinned grapes and wines of relatively pale colour, notable for an unmistakable aromatic identity: red cherry, wild strawberry, floral scents, and its signature spicy suggestions of white and black pepper. The vine requires attentive site selection and precise canopy management. Growers aim to keep bunches well ventilated, encourage even ripening and protect the delicate aromatic compounds for which the variety is known.
Harvesting traditionally takes place at full physiological maturity, without seeking excessive concentration. After destemming, the grapes are generally fermented with gentle extraction; short to medium skin-contact periods help retain the denomination’s translucent colour, supple tannins and vivid fruit. Temperature control during fermentation is particularly useful for preserving floral and peppery notes. Ageing commonly takes place in neutral vessels such as stainless steel or cement, while oak, when used, remains discreet. The denomination was established to safeguard a grape long rooted in Verduno and its distinctive, fragrant expression of Langhe red wine.
