Everything About Ormeasco Grape
"or-MEH-ahs-koh" 
Ormeasco Description
Origin: Liguria, Italy
History: Ormeasco is a red grape variety native to the Liguria region in northwestern Italy, particularly in the province of Imperia. It is considered a local clone of the Dolcetto grape, which is widely grown in the neighboring Piedmont region. The name 'Ormeasco' is believed to derive from the village of Ormea, where the grape was historically cultivated. An edict in Pornassio dating back to 1303 imposed the cultivation of this vine variety in the area, indicating its long-standing significance. In 2003, Ormeasco di Pornassio was awarded its own DOC classification, previously coming under the Riviera Ligure di Ponente DOC.
Appearance: Medium-sized, round berries with a bluish-black color and thin skin.
Growing Traits: Ormeasco thrives in mountainous terrains, particularly in the Alta Valle Arroscia, on the Ligurian side of Colle di Nava, at altitudes up to 700-800 meters above sea level. The altitude plays a crucial role, as the grapes benefit from the temperature variations, enhancing their aromas and ensuring slow ripening, which contributes to the wine's longevity. The region's unique microclimate, with sea winds alternating with winds descending from Alpine and Apennine peaks, imparts a special aroma and flavor to Ormeasco wines.
Food Pairing Ormeasco's medium body and balanced structure make it a versatile companion for various dishes. It pairs well with Ligurian cuisine, complementing both land and sea dishes. Notably, it pairs well with robust dishes like 'Stoccafisso' (dried cod local recipe). The 'Superiore' version is perfectly paired with soft cheeses and traditional dishes from the 'cucina bianca.'
Body
Sweetness
Tannin
Acidity
Alcohol
Medium-bodied with a balanced structure, offering both freshness and complexity. Typically vinified dry, though it can exhibit ripe fruit characteristics. Moderate tannin levels, contributing to a smooth and approachable mouthfeel. Medium acidity, providing vibrancy and enhancing its food-pairing versatility. Moderate alcohol content, generally around 12-13%, contributing to its refreshing character.
Ripe cherry 
Blackberry 
Currant 
Plum jam 
Violet Ormeasco wines are characterized by rich aromas of ripe cherry, blackberry, currant, plum jam, and slightly withered violet. In the 'Superiore' version, hints of woodland resins, fresh chestnut, vanilla, and black pepper prevail. On the palate, they are dry, expressing freshness, balanced tannins, and structure, with a pleasantly fruity aromatic finish and a peculiar bitterish aftertaste.
Regions
![[object Object] Region](/regions/italy.png)
Italy
•Liguria
•Piedmont
Notable Wines and Producers
Ormeasco di Pornassio DOC
•Vite in Riviera
Ormeasco Sciac-trà
•Vite in Riviera
Ormeasco FAQ
Liguria, Italy
Ormeasco has a body level of 3 out of 5. Which means that Ormeasco is Moderate bodied.
Ormeasco has a dryness level of 1 out of 5. Which means that Ormeasco is Dry.
Liguria, Italy
Ormeasco is grown in Italy (Liguria, Piedmont).
Ormeasco wines are characterized by rich aromas of ripe cherry, blackberry, currant, plum jam, and slightly withered violet. In the 'Superiore' version, hints of woodland resins, fresh chestnut, vanilla, and black pepper prevail. On the palate, they are dry, expressing freshness, balanced tannins, and structure, with a pleasantly fruity aromatic finish and a peculiar bitterish aftertaste.
Ormeasco's medium body and balanced structure make it a versatile companion for various dishes. It pairs well with Ligurian cuisine, complementing both land and sea dishes. Notably, it pairs well with robust dishes like 'Stoccafisso' (dried cod local recipe). The 'Superiore' version is perfectly paired with soft cheeses and traditional dishes from the 'cucina bianca.'
Ormeasco wines are characterized by rich aromas of ripe cherry, blackberry, currant, plum jam, and slightly withered violet. In the 'Superiore' version, hints of woodland resins, fresh chestnut, vanilla, and black pepper prevail. On the palate, they are dry, expressing freshness, balanced tannins, and structure, with a pleasantly fruity aromatic finish and a peculiar bitterish aftertaste.