Croatina

**Croatina** is a red grape from northern Italy, most at home in the hills of Oltrepò Pavese in Lombardy and the neighbouring Colli Piacentini in Emilia. It is often confusingly labelled Bonarda locally, though it is a distinct variety. **In the glass** — deeply coloured, with aromas of blackberry, dark plum and a wild, slightly earthy character. The palate tends to be full and tannic with lively acidity, and it is frequently made in a lightly sparkling, frizzante style that softens its grip. **Where it grows** — Oltrepò Pavese and Colli Piacentini are its strongholds, where it appears both on its own and as a key part of the Gutturnio blend with Barbera. Plantings are concentrated in this corner of northern Italy. **At the table** — a good foil for salami, cured meats and rich pasta. **Cellaring** — usually enjoyed young and fresh, especially in its frizzante form, though firmer still versions can hold for a few years.

Wines

• Gutturnio — Croci
• Mini-Spremuta non filtrata frizzante — La Stoppa
• Trebbiolo Rosso — La Stoppa