What is another name for Nebbiolo?

The Noble Nebbiolo Grape

Nebbiolo, a red grape variety primarily grown in the Piedmont region of Italy, is renowned for producing some of the world’s most esteemed wines. The grape’s name is derived from the Italian word “nebbia,” meaning fog, possibly because of the mist that often envelops the vineyards during the grape’s late harvest season.

The Heart of Iconic Italian Wines

Nebbiolo is the key grape variety behind several prestigious Italian wines, including Barolo and Barbaresco. These wines are celebrated for their complexity, aging potential, and the unique characteristics bestowed upon them by the Nebbiolo grape.

Spanna: Nebbiolo’s Alter Ego

While Nebbiolo is widely recognized by its given name, it goes by various pseudonyms in different regions. In the northern part of Piedmont, particularly in the Valtellina region, Nebbiolo is known as Spanna. The use of this alternative name highlights the grape’s adaptability and the subtle regional differences in its flavor profile.

Valtellina: Home of Spanna

Valtellina, located in the Lombardy region of northern Italy, is renowned for its production of wines made from the Nebbiolo grape, referred to as Spanna in this locale. The wines from Valtellina often showcase a lighter, more approachable style compared to their counterparts in Piedmont. The terroir of Valtellina, with its steep terraced vineyards along the Adda River, imparts unique characteristics to the Nebbiolo grapes grown there.

The Versatility of Nebbiolo

Aside from its primary designations of Nebbiolo and Spanna, this noble grape is also known by other names in various regions. These aliases may not be as widely recognized, but they contribute to the rich tapestry of the Nebbiolo story. Exploring these alternative names provides a fascinating journey through the diverse viticultural landscape of Italy.

Conclusion

Nebbiolo, under its various names, remains a cornerstone of Italian winemaking, producing wines that are cherished worldwide. Whether you savor a bold Barolo or a nuanced Valtellina Spanna, each glass tells a tale of tradition, terroir, and the enduring allure of this exceptional grape.