Pignoletto is the name by which Grechetto Gentile has historically been known in Emilia-Romagna, particularly in the hills around Bologna, its preferred growing area. The presence of this grape variety in the region is documented in ancient records of local viticulture, whilst ampelographic and genetic studies carried out in the 20th century have clarified its varietal identity, distinguishing it from Pinot Bianco and Riesling Italico, with which it was sometimes confused in the past. The vine has medium-sized leaves, generally round or pentagonal in shape, entire or three-lobed, with a substantial blade and serrated margins. The bunch is medium-sized, compact, cylindrical or cylindrical-conical, often densely packed and with a characteristic shape reminiscent of a small pine cone; the berries are medium-sized, oval or sub-round, with a pruinose, firm skin of a yellowish-green colour. It is mainly cultivated in the provinces of Bologna, Modena and Ravenna, with a significant presence also in other hilly and foothill areas of the region. The wines are distinguished by their straw-yellow colour, sometimes with greenish highlights, and by aromas of white flowers, apple, pear, citrus and yellow fruit. On the palate, they offer freshness, balance and a pleasant almond note, with a fuller structure in the still and superior versions. The variety’s suitability for sparkling wine production and bottle fermentation is one of its most characteristic features, though it is also capable of evolving elegantly even after adequate ageing.
