Top Pigato Wines of 2025: Gambero Rosso’s Best Picks

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Explore the best Pigato wines of 2025 as selected by Gambero Rosso, showcasing Liguria's unique terroir and wine-making expertise.

Introduction to Pigato Wine

Pigato, a native white grape variety from Liguria, is gaining significant attention in the wine world. Known for its Mediterranean character, this wine beautifully embodies the essence of its coastal and inland growing regions. The 2025 Gambero Rosso guide has recognized an impressive selection of Pigato wines, highlighting their quality and the unique attributes of their terroir. With nine outstanding labels making it to the finals, it’s clear that Pigato deserves its place alongside Vermentino as a flagship wine of Liguria.

The name "Pigato" comes from the Ligurian dialect meaning "spotted," which refers to the brown speckles found on ripe grapes. This variety is believed to have originated from a spontaneous mutation of Vermentino, perfectly adapting to the climate and soil conditions of western Liguria. As we explore these remarkable wines, you’ll discover their distinct profiles shaped by different vineyard locations—from sun-drenched coastal areas to cooler, higher-altitude sites.

Characteristics of Pigato Wine

Pigato typically exhibits a pale yellow color, along with intense aromas reminiscent of Mediterranean scrubland and herbal notes. As you delve deeper into its profile, you’ll notice hints of white flowers, stone fruits, and even briny nuances that echo its seaside origins. The palate reveals a harmonious balance between acidity and fruitiness, complemented by a pleasant mineral finish—a testament to its diverse terroir.

The flavor profile can vary significantly depending on where it’s grown:

• Coastal Areas (Albenga to Diano Marina): Warmer tones dominate here, producing wines that are ripe and full-bodied.
• Inland Valleys (Ranzo and Arroscia Valley): These wines tend to be fresher with elegant aromas due to cooler temperatures and high elevation.
• Soil Composition: Wines from limestone-rich soils often exhibit more finesse, while those grown in iron-rich red soils boast greater body and minerality.

Top Picks from Gambero Rosso 2025

This year’s standout was the U Baccan ’22 by Francesca Bruna’s winery. Not only did it reclaim its spot at the top with remarkable floral notes balanced by herbaceous undertones, but it also showcases how well this grape can express itself in various markets—nearly 50% of their production is exported.

Other noteworthy selections include:

• Villa Cambiaso’s Pigato ’23: Rich in Mediterranean herbs with excellent minerality.
• Maria Donata Bianchi’s Pigato ’23: Enchanting with jasmine and acacia aromas; it’s rich yet persistent.
• BioVino’s Grand Père ’22: An intense color coupled with mature fruit characteristics makes this one memorable.
• Cantine Calleri’s Saleasco ’23: A balance of freshness and complexity that stands out among competitors.

These wines not only reflect their producers’ commitment but also provide a glimpse into what makes Pigato truly special.

Food Pairings with Pigato Wine

When it comes to pairing food with Pigato, there’s much versatility thanks to its balanced profile:

• Young Pigato shines when paired with seafood dishes like traditional Ligurian pasta or fresh fish preparations.
• As it ages, it complements more complex dishes such as structured seafood entrees or delicate white meats.
• It’s also delightful with medium-aged cheeses which can enhance its mineral qualities while providing a satisfying contrast.

Conclusion

With robust recognition from Gambero Rosso for 2025, the future looks bright for Pigato wines. They represent not only the rich heritage of Ligurian winemaking but also an evolving narrative where tradition meets innovation. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or just beginning your journey into white wines, exploring these exquisite Pigatos will undoubtedly enrich your palate. So why not pour yourself a glass? Cheers!

Photo by Arnold Dogelis on Unsplash