Colli Altotiberini

Colli Altotiberini Denomination

The world of Italian wine is vast and rich in centuries-old traditions, and among the hidden gems worth discovering are the wines of the Colli Altotiberini Denomination. These wines come from a unique region, located in the enchanting Umbria, and carry with them a history and a flavor that can't be found anywhere else. In this article, we will explore the distinctive characteristics of this wine denomination, its most famous wines, and what makes this corner of Italy so special for wine lovers.

The History of Colli Altotiberini

The Colli Altotiberini have an ancient viticultural history dating back to distant times. The area was already known in Roman times for the production of high-quality wine. However, it was only in recent decades that this region was officially recognized as a wine denomination. In 1979, it obtained the DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) for the wines produced here, and since then, the reputation of the Colli Altotiberini has steadily grown.

Unique Terroir

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

Main Grape Varieties

In the Colli Altotiberini, several grape varieties are cultivated, each of which contributes to creating wines with unique characteristics. Among the main grape varieties, we find:

Sangiovese

Sangiovese is the most widespread grape variety in the region and is used to produce red wines with great structure and complexity. This grape variety gives rise to wines with notes of red fruits, spices, and pleasant acidity.

Grechetto

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

Trebbiano Toscano

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

Famous Wines

The Colli Altotiberini boast a wide range of delightful wines, but some deserve special mention:

Colli Altotiberini Rosso DOC

This red wine is a classic of the region, mainly produced with Sangiovese grapes. It has an intense ruby color and offers complex aromas of ripe red fruits and spices. In the mouth, 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 and aromatic whites. With the predominance of the Grechetto grape variety, it features floral and fruity notes, with a freshness that makes it perfect as an aperitif or accompaniment to light dishes.

Colli Altotiberini Vin Santo

The Vin Santo of 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.

Visiting Colli Altotiberini

If you are a wine enthusiast and wish to explore this fascinating region, we recommend planning a visit. Many wineries in the area offer tastings and guided tours, where you can discover the production process and taste the wines directly from the source.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main grape variety used for red wines in Colli Altotiberini? Sangiovese is the main grape variety used for red wines in Colli Altotiberini.

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

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

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