Ughetta is the traditional name by which Vespolina is known in various parts of northern Italy, particularly as Ughetta di Canneto in the Oltrepò Pavese region. A historic grape variety of Upper Piedmont, it was already being cultivated in the 18th century and was described ampelographically in 1825. It is found mainly in the hills of the provinces of Novara, Vercelli and Biella, with significant populations also in the Pavese area and, more sporadically, in some neighbouring parts of Lombardy.
The vine has small to medium-sized, pentagonal leaves, generally five-lobed, whilst the bunch is medium-sized, cylindrical or conical, often winged and moderately compact. The berries, which are ellipsoidal and of medium size, have a thin, pruinose, blue-black skin and juicy flesh.
When vinified, Ughetta produces a wine with a brilliant ruby colour, sometimes intense, characterised by aromas of red flowers, violets, small wild berries and spices, with a distinctive peppery note. On the palate, it displays good freshness, noticeable yet harmonious tannins, balanced alcohol content and a light-bodied structure, underpinned by a pleasant length. It can be vinified as a single-varietal wine, but it also has a traditional place in blends with Nebbiolo, Croatina and Barbera, to which it contributes aromatic finesse, colour and dynamic flavour. In the more structured versions, the acidity and tannic structure favour positive development in the bottle.
