Casteggio DOC: Complete Guide to Lombardy’s Barbera-Based Red Wine

What is Casteggio DOC?

Casteggio DOC is a small yet distinctive Italian red wine appellation located in Lombardy’s Oltrepò Pavese. Recognized since 2010, it specializes in Barbera-based blends that reflect the unique terroir of the Pavia province. Known for their lively acidity, red fruit brightness, and structured elegance, Casteggio DOC wines are treasured by collectors and cultural wine explorers alike.

History and Origins

The roots of Casteggio DOC wine go back over 2,000 years. Roman historians such as Pliny the Elder and Columella praised the vineyards of Clastidium (the ancient name for Casteggio), noting their abundance and distinctive amphorae for storage.

In the modern era, the Cantina Sociale di Casteggio, founded in 1907, laid the foundation for today’s appellation by blending Barbera and Croatina. In 2010, the zone was officially recognized as Casteggio DOC, splitting from the broader Oltrepò Pavese DOC to highlight its individuality. A 2014 regulation update cemented its identity as a Barbera-led Lombardy red wine.

Where It’s Made: Geography & Terroir

Casteggio DOC is produced in a small cluster of towns in the Oltrepò Pavese, including Borgo Priolo, Corvino San Quirico, Montebello della Battaglia, Calvignano, Oliva Gessi, and Torrazza Coste.

• Soils: A mix of gravelly alluvium, silty clay, sandy loam, and marl.
  
• Climate: Continental with warm, breezy summers and cold winters, moderated by the nearby Po River and Apennine foothills.
  
• Altitude: Vineyards typically sit between 200–400 meters, giving excellent diurnal variation that preserves acidity and aromatics.
  

The Grape (or Blend)

By law, Casteggio DOC wines must be made from:

• ≥ 65% Barbera – the backbone, offering acidity and ripe cherry/plum fruit.
  
• ≤ 35% other grapes, such as:
  
  • Croatina – adds color and rustic berry depth.
    
  • Pinot Nero (Pinot Noir) – brings finesse and elegance.
    
  • Uva Rara – floral lift and softness.
    
  • Vespolina – spice, tannins, and structure.
    

This combination balances Barbera’s freshness with complexity and longevity.

Winemaking & DOC Regulations

• Minimum Alcohol: 12.5% ABV.
  
• Rosso Aging: At least 24 months (12 in oak + 6 in bottle). Earliest release: Nov 1 of Year +2.
  
• Riserva Aging: At least 36 months (12 in oak + 6 in bottle). Earliest release: Nov 1 of Year +3.
  
• Yields: Max 85 q/ha (grapes) and 70 q/ha (wine).
  
• Acidity: ≥ 4.50 g/L.
  
• Extract: ≥ 25 g/L.
  

Key Facts at a Glance

• Appellation Established: 2010
  
• Region: Lombardy, Province of Pavia, Oltrepò Pavese
  
• Primary Grape: Barbera
  
• Wine Style: Still red wines (Rosso, Riserva)
  
• Production Size: Extremely small – just ~2 hectares under vine (2021)
  
• Notable Cooperative: Cantina Sociale di Casteggio
  

Tasting Notes

Casteggio DOC Rosso:

• Aromas of red cherry, wild plum, and spice
  
• Vibrant acidity with smooth tannins
  
• Notes of herbs, cocoa, and vanilla from oak aging
  

Casteggio DOC Riserva:

• Deeper and more structured
  
• Blackberry, balsamic, leather, and savory spices
  
• Long, elegant finish
  

Local Sweet Variant – Sangue di Giuda:
A frizzante dessert wine with sweet cherry, sugared almond, and balsamic freshness.

Serving & Pairing

• Serving Temperature: 16–18 °C
  
• Best With:
  
  • Rosso → braised meats, ossobuco, rich ragù, polenta dishes
    
  • Riserva → roasted game, aged cheese, hearty stews
    
  • Sangue di Giuda → berry tarts, almond pastries, or simply chilled as a festive treat
    

Where to Buy & Pricing

• Casteggio DOC Rosso/Riserva: Boutique Italian importers, ~$20–40
  
• Casteggio Sangue di Giuda DOC: Widely available in the U.S., ~$15–20
  
• Specialty online retailers (e.g. Cellar.com, Triangle Wine Co) carry selections.
  

FAQ on Casteggio DOC

Q: Is Casteggio DOC only red wine?
Yes. It focuses exclusively on red wines, led by Barbera.

Q: How does it compare to Barbera d’Asti?
Casteggio DOC is smaller and rarer, with stricter aging requirements, often resulting in more structured wines.

Q: What makes it unique within Lombardy?
Its size (tiny production), history dating to Roman times, and exclusive focus on Barbera blends.

Q: Can I cellar Casteggio DOC wines?
Yes. The Riserva ages beautifully for 8–10+ years, gaining savory and balsamic complexity.

Fun Facts & Cultural Notes

• Roman generals celebrated Clastidium’s wines after military victories.
  
• The Cantina Sociale di Casteggio, founded in 1907, is one of Lombardy’s historic wine cooperatives.
  
• “Sangue di Giuda” (Blood of Judas) carries a biblical legend: Judas, forgiven by Christ, returned as a vine grower to bless the land with this sweet red.
  

Related Wines to Explore

• Barbera d’Asti DOCG – Piedmont’s iconic Barbera expression
  
• Oltrepò Pavese DOC – the broader appellation from which Casteggio split
  
• Bonarda dell’Oltrepò Pavese DOC – another Lombardy red worth discovering
  

Taste Casteggio DOC with us: Have you ever tried this rare Lombardy red wine? Share your favorite Italian food pairing in the comments—or tag us on Instagram @DrinkItalian to join the conversation.

Have fun to learn more about Italian Wines and Spirits! Explore also the non-alcoholic beverages 
Send us an email if you want to suggest edits, or if you are looking for more info, at
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If you are in the mood for a good book, you can try:
– The Modern History of Italian Wine by Walter Filipputti
– Hidden Gems of Italy: An Insider’s Secret Formula To Find Top-Class Italian Wines At Value Prices And Taste La Dolce Vita by Tony Margiotta  

Additionally, you can discover the other wines from Piedmont.