Asti
About the wine
Asti DOCG is one of Italy's most recognized denominations, centered on the aromatic Moscato Bianco grape. The region produces two primary styles: Asti (or Asti Spumante), a classic sweet sparkling wine made via the Martinotti method, and Moscato d'Asti, a lightly sparkling (frizzante) wine known for its intense floral and fruit aromatics, lower alcohol, and delicate sweetness. The regulation also permits a Metodo Classico version and a rare Vendemmia Tardiva (late harvest) style. The wines are defined by their distinct aromatic profile, characterized by monoterpenic compounds like linalool and geraniol, which are preserved through careful temperature-controlled fermentation. The production zone, spanning the provinces of Asti, Alessandria, and Cuneo, features hilly, calcareous-clay soils that are essential for the grape's aromatic expression. The denomination is strictly regulated to ensure quality, mandating specific bottle weights and closures to maintain the integrity of these fragrant, low-alcohol wines.
Grape varieties
Production & aging
The production area covers 51 communes across the provinces of Asti, Alessandria, and Cuneo in the Piedmont region. Key areas include the hills around Canelli, Acqui Terme, and Santo Stefano Belbo. The terrain is characterized by hilly, calcareous, and clay-rich soils, specifically excluding valley floors or flat, humid land to ensure optimal grape quality.