Bianco di Pitigliano is a white-wine DOC covering land in the southern part of Tuscany. The mild climate and bright, reliable sunshine which characterize the Pitgliano terroir are key reasons why this is one of Tuscany's longest-established white wines. Its long history was honored when in March 1966, it was one of the very first Italian DOCs to be created, on the same day as one of Italy's most famous wines, Brunello di Montalcino, and a month before such greats as Barbaresco and Barolo. Bianco di Pitigliano wines are however quite different to their running mates, being crisp white wines with floral and mineral notes.
© Giacomo Panicacci
The vineyard area from which these wines come is relatively exclusive, although it is not just limited to the village of Pitigliano after which the DOC is named. Winemakers from neighboring Sorano may also label their wines as Bianco di Pitigliano, as may those of Scansano, of Morellino di Scansano fame. These communes are all located in the far south of Tuscany, near the border with Lazio, from which they are separated by only the Sovana DOC.
The terroir in this part of Tuscany is markedly hilly, and shot through with various rivers running towards the ocean. The sandy, rocky soils here are volcanic in origin, and are very suitable for viticulture – their permeable nature means they drain freely, allowing for deep root growth to reach water low in the ground. This makes for healthy, strong vines, which in turn leads to the production of high quality grapes.
The area around Pitigliano has a classic Mediterranean climate of warm, dry summers cooled by the Mistral wind, and cool, wet winters. Bright sunshine and warm soils ensure full phenolic ripeness, but cool influences from the sea mean this is a long, slow process, ensuring the grapes retain acidity and make balanced wines. The landscape provides protection from cold winds from the north.
Bianco di Pitigliano wines are made from a base of Trebbiano Toscano, Tuscany's white grape of choice. This is ameliorated by a variety of other grapes, including locals like Greco Bianco and Malvasia Bianca, as well as more international varieties including Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Viognier. The DOC has a superiore designation, and sparkling spumante and sweet vin santo versions are also permitted under the appellation.
