Unforgettable food and wine experiences in Donnas and Pont-Saint-Martin

What food and wine experiences can be enjoyed between Pont-Saint-Martin and Donnas?

Between Pont-Saint-Martin and Donnas, in the lower part of the Aosta Valley, visitors can experience a unique adventure: climbing and descending through the mountain vineyards, along the slopes where Aosta Valley wine is born. Walking among the vines allows one to understand the territory through wine, truly grasping what “heroism” means in alpine viticulture.

What are the heroic mountain wines of the Aosta Valley?

The heroic mountain wines are so named because they are produced in extreme conditions: steep slopes, high altitudes, and harsh climates. These difficulties make the work of winemakers laborious, but they give the wine a unique and recognizable character. The wines from Donnas and Pont-Saint-Martin are often rough, intense, and decisive, just like the land from which they come.

What can you see while walking through the vineyards of Donnas and Pont-Saint-Martin?

Walking through the vineyards, one can observe some typical features of the area: the topie, wooden or metal pergolas that support the vines and allow them to grow horizontally. The barmet, cellars carved under enormous boulders, where wine was once naturally stored cool. These elements are witnesses to the Aosta Valley's peasant tradition and make the walk a true cultural journey as well as a naturalistic one.

What grape varieties are grown in this area of the Aosta Valley?

The grape varieties cultivated between Donnas and Pont-Saint-Martin are both well-known and indigenous. Among the main ones, we find Nebbiolo, locally known as "Picotendro", from which the famous Donnas DOC is produced, the first Aosta Valley wine to obtain the Controlled Designation of Origin. The Freisa and Neyret, two red grape varieties that give the wine spicy and fruity notes. The indigenous varieties Fumin and Vien de Nus, rare and precious, cultivated only in certain areas of the Aosta Valley.

What is Donnas DOC and why is it important?

Donnas DOC is a red wine produced mainly from Nebbiolo grapes grown on the steep terraces of the area. It was the first Aosta Valley wine to obtain the Controlled Designation of Origin in 1971, demonstrating the quality of local viticulture. Its taste is dry, slightly tannic, with hints of red fruits and spices. Ideal to pair with typical Aosta Valley dishes such as carbonada or alpine cheeses.

Where can you do wine tastings in Donnas?

In the village of Donnas, it is possible to visit historic wineries and local farms that offer guided tastings. Many of these are located along the vineyard path, easily accessible on foot. In some establishments, it is also possible to participate in vineyard visits, to discover how grapes are grown in the mountains and how quality wine is made.

Why are the vineyards of Donnas and Pont-Saint-Martin so picturesque?

The terraced vineyards on steep slopes, supported by dry stone walls and traversed by narrow paths, offer a spectacular scene. During the beautiful season, the contrast between the green of the vines and the rocks of the mountain creates a postcard-like landscape. In autumn, the leaves turn red and gold, making the area perfect for a romantic weekend or a day trip focused on photography and good wine.

How to get to the vineyards of Donnas and Pont-Saint-Martin?

The area is easily reachable: by car, via the SS26 or the A5 motorway, exit Pont-Saint-Martin. By train, with the Turin-Aosta line, getting off at the Donnas or Pont-Saint-Martin station. On foot or by bicycle, for the more athletic, via marked panoramic trails among the vineyards. Once there, you can park near the medieval village or in the parking areas, even for campers.

What wine-related events take place in this area?

Throughout the year, Donnas and Pont-Saint-Martin host wine festivals and local fairs dedicated to viticultural tradition. Among the most notable is the Donnas Wine Fair, usually held in January, which is a perfect opportunity to taste local products and buy bottles directly from producers.