Erbaluce di Caluso o Caluso

"Erbaluce di Caluso" or "Caluso" is the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) that defines the homonymous white wines, including their variants: Spumante, Passito and Passito Riserva.

Grapes

The grapes used to produce them must belong exclusively to the Erbaluce vine. They are therefore made in purity.

Physicochemical and Organoleptic properties

Caluso is a white wine that is straw yellow, with a vinous, fine and characteristic aroma. Equally characteristic is the taste, with its dry and fresh tone. The minimum total alcoholic strength by volume is 11.00% vol. The Spumante variant has the same colouring, accompanied by a fine and persistent froth. The delicate aroma meets a fresh and fruity taste. The minimum total alcoholic strength by volume shall be 11,50%. In the Passito (17.00% vol.), on the other hand, you can admire a more intense colour, from golden yellow to dark amber. The aroma is delicate, the taste harmonious, full and velvety. Similar characteristics also apply to Passito Riserva, which, however, is distinguished by a more intense perfume. The latter two variants may have hints of wood if left to age in barrels of this material.

Grape production area

The cultivation area of Erbaluce extends over the territory of 37 municipalities in the provinces of Torino, Vercelli and Biella, enclosed in the morainic and canavesana basin between Ivrea and Caluso. The soil is sandy and pebbly, the reliefs are gently hilly.

Specificity and historical notes

The Spumante version of Caluso Erbaluce requires fermentation with yeast permanence of at least 15 months. The ageing of the Passito, on the other hand, is fixed at 36 months, which rises to 48 months for the Passito Riserva.