Verduno Pelaverga: The spicy, floral treasure of the Langhe

Verduno Pelaverga is a rare and aromatic dry red wine from Piedmont, made from the ancient indigenous Pelaverga Piccolo grape. It offers a delicate bouquet of wild strawberries, rose petals and its unmistakable characteristic hint of white pepper. Ideal with cold meats, light meat dishes and mild cheeses.

Description

Verduno Pelaverga is one of the most distinctive and charming red wines from Piedmont. Light in colour yet remarkably aromatic, this rare indigenous wine is praised for its delicate red fruit, floral elegance and unmistakably spicy character — particularly its characteristic hint of white pepper. Produced almost exclusively around the small village of Verduno in the Langhe hills of Piedmont, it is a true hidden gem for wine lovers seeking something different.

Grape variety Verduno Pelaverga is made from 100% Pelaverga Piccolo, an ancient indigenous grape variety found almost nowhere else in the world except in the Verduno area of Piedmont. For years, the grape was in danger of disappearing, but dedicated local producers have preserved it and helped restore its reputation. Today, it is protected under the Verduno Pelaverga DOC appellation and remains one of Piedmont’s rarest and most sought-after wines.

Appearance In the glass, Verduno Pelaverga displays a light ruby red colour with bright garnet reflections. Its transparency and elegance immediately hint at the wine’s lighter, fresher style — do not be misled by the pale colour, for the nose and palate are anything but restrained.

Primary flavour notes The primary flavours of Verduno Pelaverga are shaped by the unique Pelaverga Piccolo grape and the terroir of the Langhe:

• Wild strawberry & red cherry — fresh, lively red fruits at the core

• Rose petals & violets — a delicate and elegant floral note

• White pepper & pink peppercorns — the unmistakable spicy characteristic of Pelaverga

• Subtle lemon zest — a bright and refreshing aromatic note

• Delicate spicy & earthy notes — adding depth and a pleasantly rustic character

Aromatic profile The nose is intensely aromatic and immediately inviting. Fresh red berries mingle with floral notes of rose and violet, whilst lively hints of white pepper and delicate spices rise from the glass. As the wine unfolds, subtle spicy nuances and accents of citrus peel add extra complexity and liveliness. This spicy, peppery character is the wine’s unmistakable trademark and sets it apart from any other red wine from Piedmont — or anywhere else in Italy.

Structure On the palate, Verduno Pelaverga is dry and light-bodied, with soft, subtle tannins and a bright, lively acidity that keeps the wine fresh and elegant. The silky texture and lively spiciness make it exceptionally easy to drink, whilst the long peppery finish adds character and persistence. Served slightly chilled, the Pelaverga becomes even more refreshing and expressive — a truly versatile and food-friendly wine.

Wine style Dry red wine — light-bodied, aromatic, fresh and subtly spicy.

Pairings

The refreshing acidity, soft tannins and lively spiciness of Verduno Pelaverga make it an extremely versatile wine at the table:

• Charcuterie & antipasti — salami, prosciutto, cured meats and traditional antipasti platters

• Pasta & risotto — tajarin with butter and sage, mushroom risotto, light tomato-based pasta

• White meat & poultry — roast chicken, turkey, rabbit and grilled pork

• Vegetarian dishes — roasted vegetables, stuffed peppers and herb-based dishes

• Mild and semi-mature cheeses — Robiola, Taleggio, young Pecorino

Serving temperature: Best served slightly chilled at 14–16 °C, which enhances the freshness and aromatic spiciness.