Riviera ligure di Ponente

Styles

Principal grape varieties

Terroir

• The lithological substrates of the Tyrrhenian hill ranges of the western Ligurian coast (Genoa and Savona provinces) consist of conglomerates, limestones, and quartzites with a coarse loam texture.
• In the Albenganese area, the hill ranges feature turbidites of calcareous-marly and clayey composition with a fine loam texture, or alternatively arenaceous turbidites and limestones with a coarse loam texture.
• In the Imperiese area, the hill ranges are composed mainly of arenaceous turbidites and conglomerates with a coarse loam texture and a reaction ranging from slightly acid to alkaline.
• Vineyards are located between 0 and 800 metres above sea level, with a predominant elevation of between 200 and 300 metres and slopes of between 35 and 50%.
• The Huglin heliothermal index stands at approximately 1,970 °C, with values ranging from 1,820 to 2,100 depending on the vintage, while mean annual rainfall is approximately 930 mm.

• The introduction and spread of the vine is historically attributed to sailors and merchants who, from the early Middle Ages onward, brought cultivars from other territories and also taught the practice of terracing with dry-stone walls.
• The wine trade of the Ligurian Riviera is documented in the records of the Republic of Genoa concerning maritime commerce with Nice and Rome, and seventeenth-century documents confirm supplies to the Duchy of Milan and the Prince of Savoy.
• The grape varieties Pigato, Rossese, and Granaccia are present almost exclusively in this zone, a factor that, according to the production regulations, legitimises Riviera ligure di Ponente's claim to its denomination over other vine-growing areas.

• The wines of the Riviera ligure di Ponente appellation are distinguished by good acidity, intense and vivid colours, fine yet intense aromas that are predominantly fruity, and a slightly bitter finish.
• The flavours are fresh, dry yet soft in the whites, and warm and full-bodied in the reds, with a slightly bitter and lightly acidic undertone.

Facts drawn from the specification's terroir-link section by automatic interpretation — see the source.

Sottozone

• Riviera ligure di Ponente Albenganese DOC (PDO)
• Riviera ligure di Ponente Finalese DOC (PDO)
• Riviera ligure di Ponente Quiliano DOC (PDO)
• Riviera ligure di Ponente Riviera dei Fiori DOC (PDO)
• Riviera ligure di Ponente Taggia DOC (PDO)

All appellations in Italy

Sources

• eAmbrosia register (EU) — File number PDO-IT-A0357
• Official trade body site — Vite in Riviera — Consorzio tutela DOP/IGP Levante ligure