Altotiberini Hills

Colli Altotiberini denomination

The world of Italian wine is vast and rich with centuries-old traditions, and among the hidden gems worth discovering are the wines of the Colli Altotiberini appellation. These wines hail from a unique region, located in the enchanting Umbria, and bring with them a history and flavor found nowhere else. In this article, we'll explore the distinctive characteristics of this wine appellation, its most celebrated wines, and what makes this corner of Italy so special for wine lovers.

The History of the Altotiberini Hills

The Altotiberini Hills have a long winemaking history, dating back to ancient times. The area was known as early as Roman times for its high-quality wine production. However, it was only in recent decades that this region was officially recognized as a wine appellation. In 1979, the wines produced here were awarded DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) status, and since then the reputation of the Altotiberini Hills has grown steadily.

Unique Terroir

One of the reasons why the wines of the Altotiberini Hills are so special is their unique terroir. This region is characterized by hills and valleys that create ideal microclimates for growing grapes. The mineral-rich soil and favorable climatic conditions contribute to the production of high-quality grapes, which in turn translate into exceptional wines.

The Main Grape Varieties

In the Altotiberini Hills, several grape varieties are cultivated, each contributing to the creation of wines with unique characteristics. Among the main grape varieties are:

Sangiovese

Sangiovese is the most widespread grape in the region and is used to produce red wines of great structure and complexity. This grape produces wines with notes of red fruit, spice, and a pleasant acidity.

Grechetto

Grechetto is the star of the white wines of the Altotiberini Hills. This grape variety offers fresh and elegant wines, with aromas of white flowers and yellow-fleshed fruit.

Tuscan Trebbiano

Trebbiano Toscano is another important white grape variety. It is known for its lively acidity and is often used to produce dry, aromatic white wines.

The Famous Wines

The Altotiberini Hills boast a wide range of exquisite wines, but some deserve a special mention:

Colli Altotiberini Rosso DOC

This red wine is a classic of the region, made primarily from Sangiovese grapes. It has a deep ruby color and offers complex aromas of ripe red fruits and spices. On the palate, it is full-bodied, with soft tannins and a long finish.

Colli Altotiberini Bianco DOC

The Colli Altotiberini DOC white wine is a delight for lovers of dry, aromatic white wines. Predominantly made from the Grechetto grape, it offers floral and fruity notes, with a freshness that makes it perfect as an aperitif or an accompaniment to light dishes.

Altotiberini Hills Vin Santo

Vin Santo dei Colli Altotiberini is an extraordinary dessert wine. Made from Trebbiano and Malvasia grapes, it is aged for years in small wooden barrels. The result is a sweet, rich, and complex wine with notes of honey, dried fruit, and caramel.

Visit the Altotiberini Hills

If you're a wine enthusiast and want to explore this fascinating region, we recommend planning a visit. Many local wineries offer tastings and guided tours, where you can learn about the production process and savor the wines directly from the source.

The Altotiberini Hills are a hidden gem in the heart of Umbria, a wine region definitely worth exploring. With its rich history, unique terroir, and delicious wines, this destination is a must-see for wine lovers. Don't miss the opportunity to savor the wines of the Altotiberini Hills and discover the charm of this wine region.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main grape variety used for the red wines of the Altotiberini Hills? Sangiovese is the main grape variety used for the red wines of the Altotiberini Hills.

Where is the Altotiberini Hills region located? The Altotiberini Hills are located in Umbria, a central region of Italy.

What are the distinctive characteristics of the white wines of the Altotiberini Hills? The white wines of the Altotiberini Hills are known for their freshness, with floral and fruity aromas.

What makes Vin Santo dei Colli Altotiberini unique? Vin Santo dei Colli Altotiberini is an exceptional dessert wine thanks to its long aging in wooden barrels, which gives it complex notes of honey and dried fruit.