Brachetto d'Acqui

Brachetto d'Acqui [braˈketto ˈdakkwi] is a red Italian wine that is classified as a Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (DOCG) since 1996 and previously a Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC) region since 1969. It is produced in the Piedmont wine region around Acqui Terme in the province of Alessandria with some overlap into the province of Asti. The wine is produced from the Brachetto grape, a variety that is believed to be native to Piedmont, and can be still or sparkling with usually some sweetness.

The exact origins of the wine are unknown. While the Brachetto grape is believed to be native to Piedmont (with the Monferrato hills and the area around Asti being the most likely home of the grape), some ampelographers have speculated as early as the late 19th century that the grape might actually be French in origin.

Still, the production of a sweet, frothy red wine from this region has long tradition. In the Italian theater tradition of Commedia dell'arte, the mask character of Gianduja da Gioan d'laduja or Giovanni of the Jug, which represented Turin and Piedmont is said to have preferred Brachetto d'Acqui among all others. Even prior, in the times of Ancient Rome, writers were describing a wine Gallia Cisalpina (northern Italy) known as vinum acquense (wine of the Acqui) that was a favorite among patricians with its sweet flavors and high aromatics. Legend also had it that Julius Caesar and Marc Antony presented Cleopatra several gourds of vinum acquense as a gift. Also, according to legend, the Pharaoh believed that the wine had the power to unleash the passions of her lovers.

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