Malvasia di Castelnuovo Don Bosco DOC is a sweet, lightly sparkling red wine from Piedmont’s Monferrato hills. Made from Malvasia di Schierano grapes, it offers strawberry and rose aromas with a low alcohol content (5–7.5%). Perfect for desserts, romantic gifts, and summer celebrations.
Table of Contents
What is Malvasia di Castelnuovo Don Bosco DOC?
A frizzante or spumante sweet red wine produced in Monferrato, Piedmont, mainly from Malvasia di Schierano grapes. Known for:
- Low alcohol (5–7.5%)
- Aromas of rose petals, violets, and red berries
- A romantic, celebratory feel
Also called “the wine of first loves,” it’s often the first glass served at family celebrations in Piedmont.
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How much does Malvasia di Castelnuovo Don Bosco cost?
One of Italy’s best-value sweet sparkling reds:
- Italy: €6–€12
- US/UK: $12–$18
Comparable to Brachetto d’Acqui, but often 20–30% cheaper.
What does Malvasia di Castelnuovo Don Bosco taste like?
Color: Ruby red with violet hues
Aromas: Strawberry, raspberry, wild roses, candied violets
Palate: Sweet but fresh, with red berry compote, gentle bubbles, and a clean floral finish
Where can I buy Malvasia di Castelnuovo Don Bosco?
- Specialist Italian wine shops
- Online retailers: Eataly, Vinitaly Wine Club, Wine.com
- In Piedmont: Directly from producers in Castelnuovo Don Bosco and neighboring villages
Is Malvasia di Castelnuovo Don Bosco always sweet?
Yes. By DOC rules, all styles—still, frizzante, spumante—are sweet. It’s crafted for desserts, aperitivo, and celebration toasts.
History & Origins
Named after Castelnuovo Don Bosco, home to Saint John Bosco. Malvasia di Schierano has been cultivated here since medieval times. The modern DOC was established in 1973, preserving its aromatic, low-alcohol identity.
Geography & Terroir
- Communes: Castelnuovo Don Bosco, Albugnano, Passerano Marmorito, Pino d’Asti, Berzano di San Pietro, Moncucco Torinese
- Soil: Calcareous marl & clay
- Altitude: 200–400m
- Climate: Continental, with cool nights enhancing aromatic freshness
Producer Spotlights
1. Cascina Gilli (Castelnuovo Don Bosco)
Award-winning spumante style with delicate mousse, intense rose and strawberry aroma. Exported widely.
2. Cantina Sociale di Castelnuovo Don Bosco
Cooperative producing classic frizzante, widely available and great value.
3. Tenuta Tamburnin
Organic-focused estate making artisanal versions with elegant packaging—ideal for gifts.
Brachetto d’Acqui vs. Malvasia di Castelnuovo Don Bosco
| Feature | Malvasia di Castelnuovo Don Bosco | Brachetto d’Acqui |
| Main Grape | Malvasia di Schierano | Brachetto |
| Style | Sweet red, frizzante/spumante | Sweet red, spumante |
| Flavor | Strawberry, rose, violet | Rose petal, spice, raspberry |
| Price (Italy) | €6–€12 | €9–€16 |
| Alcohol | 5–7.5% | 5–7% |
| Best Use | Romantic aperitif, light desserts | Chocolate pairing, festive toasts |
Wine & Faith: Visiting Don Bosco Country
GPS: 45.045° N, 7.975° E
- Don Bosco’s Birthplace Museum in Colle Don Bosco
- Basilica of Our Lady Help of Christians
- Wine Routes linking religious landmarks to tasting rooms
Best visit: Late summer/early autumn for harvest + village festivals.
Gift Guide
- Religious Occasions: First communion, confirmation
- Romantic Gifts: Valentine’s Day, anniversaries
- Beginner Wine Lovers: Low alcohol, approachable sweetness
- Corporate Gifts: Pair with Piedmont hazelnuts or chocolate
FAQ
Is it good for beginners?
Yes—its sweetness and low alcohol make it beginner-friendly.How long can I store it?
Drink within 2 years to preserve freshness.
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
Additionally, you can discover the other wines from Piedmont.
