Uva Rara: the soft, fragrant soul of Alto Piemonte blends

Uva Rara from Piedmont

A smooth, elegant and wonderfully fragrant red wine

Uva Rara is one of Piedmont’s lesser-known hidden gems — a light to medium-bodied red wine beloved for its floral aromas, fresh red fruits and supple, approachable character. This wine is elegant rather than powerful, combining freshness, softness and subtle complexity in a wonderfully drinkable style.

Despite its name, which literally means “rare grape”, Uva Rara has long been part of the winemaking tradition in northern Italy, particularly in Piedmont and neighbouring Lombardy. The grape is often used to make Nebbiolo-based blends softer and more lively, but when vinified on its own, it reveals a charming personality that deserves attention in its own right.

Grape variety

Uva Rara is made from the indigenous Uva Rara grape, also known in some areas as Bonarda Novarese. The variety is mainly grown in northern Piedmont, particularly around Novara and Vercelli, where it adds freshness and elegance to traditional regional wines such as Ghemme DOCG and Sizzano DOC.

As a single-varietal wine, Uva Rara offers a softer and more fragrant expression than many of the more structured red wines from Piedmont.

Appearance

In the glass, Uva Rara displays a bright ruby red colour with youthful purple reflections. The vibrant appearance reflects the wine’s fresh and lively character.

Primary flavour notes

Uva Rara is prized for its delicate yet expressive flavour profile:

• Red cherries and ripe cherries

• Raspberry and blackberry

• Rose and violet

• Soft, sweet herbs

• Light peppery and spicy notes

Together, these aromas and flavours create a wine that is refined, fresh and approachable.

Aromatic profile

The nose is fragrant and lively, opening with floral aromas of rose petals and violets, followed by bright red berries such as cherries and raspberries. After some time in the glass, subtle dark fruit notes, soft herbs and delicate spicy nuances emerge.

The overall aromatic style is elegant and fragrant, with a freshness that makes the wine immediately inviting.

Palate

On the palate, Uva Rara is dry, smooth and light to medium-bodied, with soft tannins and refreshing acidity. The texture is soft and approachable, whilst the fruit remains lively and sparkling.

Some wines may exhibit a subtle bitter note or a slightly crisp freshness, which adds extra character to the finish without overpowering the wine’s elegance.

Wine style

Dry red wine — fragrant, fresh and elegant, with soft tannins and a supple texture.

Pairings

Thanks to its freshness and versatility, Uva Rara pairs excellently with a wide range of lighter dishes.

Charcuterie & Antipasti

Perfect with salami, cured meats and classic antipasti platters.

Pasta dishes

Excellent with pasta dishes such as:

• Wild boar ragù

• Tomato-based sauces

• Rustic Piedmontese pasta dishes

Meat dishes

Naturally pairs with:

• Lamb with thyme

• Lightly roasted meat

• Dishes featuring raw meat and carpaccio

• Tuna tataki

Cheese

Delicious with semi-mature and mature cheeses that complement the freshness without overpowering the delicate structure.

Uva Rara is an elegant and approachable wine that subtly reveals a different side of Piedmont — fresh, floral and full of understated charm.