Discover the rare Pelaverga and Quagliano grapes, taste centuries of history, and explore one of Piedmont’s most intriguing wine regions.
Table of Contents
Quick Facts
- Region: Piedmont, Province of Cuneo, Italy
- Established: 1996 (DOC status)
- Signature Grapes: Pelaverga, Quagliano, Barbera, Chatus, Nebbiolo
- Altitude: Up to 750 m
- Annual Production: ~3,340 cases
- Wine Styles: Red, rosato, sparkling
Climate: Continent
Additionally, you can discover the other wines from Piedmont.
What is Colline Saluzzesi DOC?
Colline Saluzzesi DOC is one of Piedmont’s most quietly captivating wine denominations. Nestled against the dramatic backdrop of Monviso in Italy’s Cottian Alps, this DOC is home to some of the region’s rarest grape varieties—Pelaverga and Quagliano—alongside stalwarts like Barbera and Nebbiolo.
Production is tiny, the wines are characterful, and their story is entwined with centuries of local tradition.
History and Origins of Colline Saluzzesi
While the DOC is relatively young (established in 1996), the winemaking tradition here stretches back to at least the 18th century. Quagliano was documented in 1721 in Busca and Pelaverga has likely been cultivated in these hills for centuries.
By the 1970s, both varieties were near extinction, saved only by dedicated local producers determined to preserve the region’s vinous heritage.
Geography & Terroir
The Colline Saluzzesi zone includes the town of Saluzzo and surrounding communes like Pagno, Manta, Verzuolo, and Costigliole Saluzzo.
Here, vines grow on well-drained sandy-loam, clay, and calcareous soils at elevations reaching 750 m. The climate is continental but softened by Alpine breezes, which extend the ripening season and preserve freshness in the grapes.
Grape Varieties and Wine Styles
- Pelaverga – Light-bodied reds with bright cherry and raspberry aromas, gentle spice, and soft tannins.
- Quagliano – Typically vinified as sweet or sparkling red, offering violet florals and soft berry fruit.
- Barbera & Chatus – Provide structure, acidity, and depth to blends and single-varietals.
- Nebbiolo – Adds elegance and complexity in certain blends.
DOC Styles
- Rosso blends: 60%+ Barbera, Chatus, Nebbiolo, Pelaverga
- Single-varietals: Pelaverga, Quagliano (still and spumante), Barbera, Chatus
- Rosato: From Pelaverga
Tasting Notes and Characteristics
- Pelaverga: Bright ruby; aromas of strawberry, rose petal, and white pepper; lively acidity.
- Quagliano Spumante: Soft mousse, ripe berry sweetness, violet and rose hints.
- Barbera & Chatus: Darker fruit profile, higher acidity, medium tannins, good structure.
Food Pairing Recommendations
- Pelaverga: Salumi, vitello tonnato, light pasta dishes.
- Quagliano: Hazelnut torte, chocolate desserts, fresh fruit tarts.
- Rosso blends: Braised beef, game dishes, aged cheeses.
- Sparkling Quagliano: Aperitivo or fruit-based desserts.
Serving Temperatures
- Light reds (Pelaverga): 14–16 °C
- Structured reds (Barbera, Chatus): 16–18 °C
- Sparkling Quagliano: 8–10 °C
Best Colline Saluzzesi DOC Wines to Try
- Cascina Melognis Pelaverga Grosso “Divicaroli” – Elegant, spicy, floral.
- Cascina Melognis “Ardy” Rosso – Structured and balanced blend.
- Giovanni Abrigo Quagliano Spumante – Sweet, celebratory fizz.
Where to Buy Colline Saluzzesi Wines
Due to production of only ~3,340 cases annually, these wines are scarce outside Italy. Look for them via boutique importers specializing in Piedmont or directly from wineries when visiting. Expect prices from €12–€20 for Pelaverga and €15–€25 for rare Quagliano spumante.
Related Wines You Might Like
- Verduno Pelaverga DOC – Another Piedmont Pelaverga expression
- Ruchè di Castagnole Monferrato DOCG – Aromatic red from Monferrato
- Brachetto d’Acqui DOCG – Sweet sparkling red from southern Piedmont
Travel Notes
The Colline Saluzzesi region is a picturesque base for exploring Piedmont’s western Alps. Visitors can enjoy vineyard tours, local hazelnut desserts, and panoramic views of Monviso. Autumn harvest season is particularly magical.
Fun Facts & Cultural Notes
- Quagliano’s name may derive from caià (“curdled”), a nod to ancient winemaking practices.
- Pelaverga cultivation here is distinct from Verduno’s, offering a slightly lighter, fruitier profile.
- Vineyards often share space with orchards and vegetable plots—showcasing the mixed agriculture heritage of the region
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
cheers@drinkitalian.com
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
