What are the regions famous for producing Grappa brandy?

Which regions are famous for grappa?

Grappa is a protected name for the whole of Italy, and several regions have their own geographical indication. According to the grappa trade body, the original six regions recognized in 1989 are Veneto, Trentino, Alto Adige, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Lombardy and Piedmont, plus the Barolo sub-region of Piedmont. Sicily (and its Marsala sub-region) was added in 2008. The trade body counts nine geographical indications in total (regions and sub-regions).

Is grappa a brandy?

Grappa is a pomace brandy in the broad sense of a distilled fruit product, and many people call it Italian brandy. The key difference is the raw material. Most brandy, such as cognac, is distilled from wine. Grappa is distilled from pomace: the skins, seeds and stems left after grapes are pressed. To be called grappa, the pomace must come from grapes grown and made into wine in Italy, and the spirit must be distilled in Italy.

Brandy vs grappa at a glance

What does each region tend to make?

We found no official source that describes the taste differences by region, so treat claims about regional style with caution. The region name on the label tells you where the pomace was distilled and which indication applies. Some bottles name a grape variety or wine such as Barolo or Marsala, which points to the pomace used.

How to choose and serve

• Check the label for Grappa, the region and the ABV.
• Serve it in a small glass, as a digestif after a meal, or add a small amount to coffee.