Berici Hills

Berici Hills denomination

The Veneto region is renowned for its scenic beauty and culinary culture, but few know it hides a wine treasure: the wines of the Colli Berici appellation. These wines embody the history and tradition of a unique land, the Berici Hills, located in the province of Vicenza. In this article, we'll explore this fascinating wine appellation, its main grape varieties, and the wines made from them.

The History of the Berici Hills

The Berici Hills boast a winemaking history that dates back centuries. The first written records of wine production in this region date back to Roman times. However, it was only in 1969 that Colli Berici wines were awarded the Controlled Designation of Origin (DOC) designation, recognizing their quality and connection to the terroir.

Unique Terroir

The terroir of the Berici Hills is truly unique. This region is characterized by hills that extend for kilometers, forming valleys and ideal microclimates for growing vines. The limestone-rich soil gives the wines a distinctive minerality, while the mild climate and the influence of nearby Lake Garda help maintain an optimal temperature throughout the grape growing cycle.

The Main Grape Varieties

The Berici Hills are known for their variety of native and international grape varieties, each of which contributes to the creation of unique wines:

Garganega

Garganega is the main grape variety used to produce the famous Soave white wine. This varietal gives the wines floral aromas and a pleasant freshness, making Soave an ideal wine to accompany fish and light dishes.

Merlot

Merlot is a red grape widely grown in the Berici Hills. Merlot wines from this region are known for their smoothness and aromas of red fruit, such as cherries and plums. They are versatile wines suitable for a variety of occasions.

Red Tai

Tai Rosso, also known as Tocai Rosso, is a native grape variety from the Berici Hills. It produces structured red wines with notes of dark fruit, spice, and a pleasant acidity.

The Famous Wines

The Berici Hills offer a wide range of exquisite wines, but some stand out for their excellence:

Soave DOCG

Soave is one of Northern Italy's most famous white wines. Made primarily from Garganega grapes, it offers aromas of white flowers and an enveloping freshness. Soave DOCG is a guarantee of quality.

Colli Berici Rosso DOC

This red wine represents the excellence of the Berici Hills. Made with Merlot as the main grape, it is an elegant and complex wine, with notes of ripe red fruit and spice. It pairs perfectly with red meats and aged cheeses.

Visit the Berici Hills

If you're a wine enthusiast and want to explore this enchanting wine region, we recommend planning a visit. Numerous wineries in the area offer tastings and guided tours, allowing you to discover the production process and savor the wines directly from the source.

The Berici Hills are a hidden gem in the Veneto region, a wine destination captivating with its history and high-quality wines. With a unique terroir and a variety of exceptional wines, this region deserves to be explored by every wine lover. Don't miss the opportunity to taste the wines of the Berici Hills and discover the charm of this wine region.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main grape variety used for Soave dei Colli Berici? The main grape variety used for Soave dei Colli Berici is Garganega.

Where are the Berici Hills located? The Berici Hills are located in the province of Vicenza, in the Veneto region of northern Italy.

What is the main grape variety used for the red wines of the Colli Berici? Merlot is one of the main grape varieties used for the red wines of the Colli Berici.

What is the region's most famous wine? Soave DOCG is one of the most famous and renowned wines of the Berici Hills.