La Spergola: a rediscovered grape with unexpected characteristics

Spergola thrives in clay and gypsum-rich soils between Scandiano and Canossa and resists drought well. Its history is connected with Matilde di Canossa and, more concretely, with Bianca Cappello’s 1580 description of a fresh, sparkling wine from Scandiano.

Confusion with Sauvignon Blanc eroded the grape’s independent identity and brought it close to extinction. In 2004, local growers and producers joined the Comune di Scandiano in a recovery effort. Biological research by the University of Bologna isolated its genetic identity. DOC recognition followed in 2011, together with the foundation of the Compagnia della Spergola to protect and promote it.

The article illustrates the variety’s versatility through still, Charmat, ancestral, passito and vermouth interpretations. Harvest timing ranges from mid-August for acidity-driven sparkling styles to mid-September for other expressions. Production examples include fine-lees ageing, bottle refermentation, four months of grape drying and two years in French oak.