What are the best wines of Lombardy - Italy?

The wines of Lombardy 

In Lombardy there are wines with very different characteristics. This is largely due to the great variety of microclimatic and soil conditions created by the presence of the Alpine mountain ranges in the north, the lakes in the foothills and the plains in the valley.

The main grape varieties in Lombardy

In Valtellina, the main grape variety is Nebbiolo. Others are Pignola, Rossola and Brugnola, all black grapes, rarely vinified as single varietals and included in the blend of classic Valtellina wines. 

In the Oltrepò Pavese, the most widespread vine is Barbera, followed by Croatina, Bonarda and Uva Rara. Pinot Nero deserves special mention, while white wines are made from Riesling Italico, Moscato and Malvasie grapes.

Franciacorta, in the area of Lake Iseo, is known for the cultivation of Pinot Noir, Pinot Blanc and Chardonnay grapes.

In the area of Garda and Colli Mantovani, Groppello, Barbera, Marzemino and Sangiovese grapes are cultivated. 

Lombardy is characterised by a high level of quality and boasts 5 DOCG, 21 DOC and 15 IGT. 

The D.O.C.G. wines of Lombardy: how many and what are they?

The denominations in Lombardy are numerous and complex. We will limit ourselves here to listing the DOCGs. 

• Franciacorta (chardonnay and/or pinot noir; pinot bianco max 50%)
• Oltrepò Pavese metodo classico (pinot nero min 70%)
• Scanzo or Moscato di Scanzo (100% moscato di scanzo)
• Sforzato di Valtellina or Sfursat di Valtellina (nebbiolo, locally chiavennasca, min 90%)
• Valtellina superiore (nebbiolo, locally chiavennasca, min 90%)

Lombardy Food Region

Lombardy wines go well with traditional dishes: here are some of the great classics of Lombardy cuisine

Antipasti

• Sciatt from Valtellina

First courses

• Milanese risotto
• Pizzoccheri from Valtellina
• Pancotto 

Second courses

•  Cassoela
•  Ossobuco
•  Cooked trout
•  Polenta

Desserts

• Panettone 
• Cremona nougat