Oltrepò Pavese DOCG Pinot Nero 2021 Castello di Cigognola

What kind of wine is it?

Oltrepò Pavese Pinot Nero Castello di Cigognola is a red wine made from Pinot Noir grapes, featuring a dry and fresh style. Its character is clear-cut, with notable persistence and a focus on fruit clarity. The winemaking process includes spontaneous fermentation in open tonneaux, using both whole berries and whole grape clusters, followed by aging in concrete and wood before bottling.

Where does it come from?

This wine is produced in Oltrepò Pavese, in the Scuropasso valley area, where the Castello di Cigognola is located. The castle dates back to the mid-1300s and has been tied for generations to the Arnaboldi, Brichetto, and Moratti families, with exclusive management by the Moratti family since 1981. The territorial identity is reflected in a red wine focused on freshness and aromatic precision, consistent with the grape variety.

How is it produced?

The grapes come from selected parcels and are harvested by hand. Fermentation is spontaneous and takes place in open tonneaux, employing both whole berries and whole grape clusters to achieve balanced extraction and a structure in line with Pinot Noir. After fermentation, the wine is aged in concrete and wood and then bottled through essential and controlled steps.

Tasting notes

In the glass, it appears ruby red with violet highlights. On the nose, you’ll find aromas of forest fruits and spicy notes, offering a clean and well-ordered profile. The palate is dry and fresh, smooth on the finish with good persistence, emphasizing flavor continuity over density.

Food pairings

At the table, it pairs well with rich charcuterie appetizers, ragù-based first courses, and braised meats, where its freshness balances the richness and juiciness. Its dry style makes it a reliable companion when you want precise, unobtrusive pairings, harmonizing with moderately structured dishes and well-defined sauces.

When to serve

This red is ideal for gatherings with friends when you’re looking for a dry, fresh Pinot Noir to accompany a full meal. Its good persistence makes it suitable for a casual dinner as well as a special occasion, especially when the meal features cured meats, rich ragù sauces, or braised dishes. It's at its best when you want fruit expression, aromatic precision, and drinkability, without the need for long wait times.