Piemont

DOC classification for spumante in the Piemont region in Italy. The zone extends along the hilly stretches of the Langhe region on the right bank of the Tanaro river, it includes 142 communes in the provinces of Alessandria, Asti and Cuneo. The sparkling wine was classified in 2002, and is one of only a few in Italy to specify the Metodo Classico (second fermentation in bottle, see also under spumante). The sparkling wine is made from a minimum of 90% Pinot Nero and/or Chardonnay, as well as optionally from a maximum of 10% local varieties. There are Bianco, Rosato and Rosso variants, all of which must mature in bottle on the yeast for 9 to 18 months. The vintage version (Millesimato) must mature on the yeast for a minimum of 24 to 30 months.