Bervedino is an ancient white grape variety native to the Piacenza area, specifically the Val d’Arda and the eastern hills of Piacenza. Its history is intertwined with that of the Vernaccia varieties cultivated along the ancient routes linking Liguria, Tuscany and Emilia: recent molecular studies have in fact highlighted a close correspondence with Vernaccia di San Gimignano and the Ligurian Piccabon, whilst the relationship with Canaiolo Bianco is the subject of interpretations that do not always agree. The leaf is medium-sized, wedge-shaped, generally three-lobed, though sometimes with five lobes; it has an open petiole sinus, a moderately blistered upper surface and a lightly tomentose underside. The bunch is small to medium in size, conical, medium to compact, often with one or two wings and a short stalk. The berries, small to medium in size and spherical, have a green-yellow skin, moderately pruinose, which can take on more golden hues with ripening and exposure. Today, the variety is primarily associated with the hills around Piacenza and the Arda Valley, where it expresses its distinctive character. When vinified as a single variety, it produces a wine with a pale golden-yellow colour, a delicately fruity and sometimes floral bouquet, and a fresh, savoury flavour with good finesse. The structure is light and fragrant, designed for pleasure and easy drinking; it can also be enhanced when blended with Melara and Santa Maria, and in still or semi-sparkling versions.
