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Wines and grape varieties
The appellation follows similar relaxed rules to Langhe allowing the blending of native varieties with international grapes. These wines are sold under the labels Monferrato Rosso and Monferrato Bianco.
Varietal wines are also made, and must comprise 85 percent of the stated variety. The reds are dominated by the indigenous grape varieties Barbera, Freisa, Grignolino and Dolcetto. The 'international' varieties are led by Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir.
In terms of the region's white grapes, Cortese is the most widely used variety. The popular French imports Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc follow close behind.
Production area
The zone covers the provinces of Asti and Alessandria. The region is divided by the Tanaro river. The northern part is known as Basso (Lower) Monferrato and features plains and rolling hills. South of the river lies the Alto Monferrato, which rises into the Apennine mountain chain.
The area is rich in history, both in winemaking (many estates date back to the 19th Century) and general terms. It boasts numerous castles, churches and medieval villages. In 2014 it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, alongside Langhe-Roero.
Climate and terroir
Much of the terroir here is ideal for viticulture, thanks to its continental climate and free draining, tuffaceous soils. This type of soil is perfect for producing high quality wines from such varieties as Grignolino and Barbera. Both of these have the classically Italian combination of fresh, tangy fruit and a balance of sugar and acidity.
Appellations within Monferrato
The Monferrato is also home to various DOC and DOCG appellations. These include Barbera d'Asti (whose borders are very similar) and the various Asti designations for still, frizzante and sparkling wines. Barbera del Monferrato, its DOCG Superiore sibling, Nizza DOCG, Ruchè, Albugnano and Dolcetto di Ovado are also located here.
In the far northeast of the DOC lies the sub appellation Monferrato Casalese, based around the commune of Casale. The wines tend to be a little less complex than others from the Piedmont region.
In this area Grignolino del Monferrato Casalese is also produced. This is a tannic, cherry red wine with lively acidity and fruity aromas reminiscent of rosehip and raspberries. The white wine of Casale is the Monferrato Casalese Cortese, a dry, refreshing and floral wine. The Cortese heartland of Gavi lies in the southeast corner of the region.
