Bolognese Hills

Colli Bolognesi denomination

Emilia-Romagna, renowned for its cuisine and culinary culture, is also home to an extraordinary wine region: Colli Bolognesi. This region, located south of Bologna, offers a range of exquisite wines that embody the authenticity and tradition of the area. In this article, we'll explore the magic of Colli Bolognesi, its main grape varieties, and the wines they produce.

The History of the Bolognese Hills

The Colli Bolognesi boast a long winemaking history that stretches back to ancient times. The first written records of wine production in this region date back to Roman times. However, it wasn't until 1937 that the controlled designation of origin (DOC) was granted, recognizing the quality and tradition of the local wines.

Unique Terroir

The terroir of the Colli Bolognesi is truly unique. This region is characterized by rolling hills, sun-exposed vineyards, and ideal climatic conditions for growing grapes. The limestone-rich soil gives the wines a distinctive minerality, while the continental climate with marine influences helps maintain an optimal temperature throughout the grape growing cycle.

The Main Grape Varieties

In the heart of the Bolognese Hills, several native and international grape varieties are grown, each of which contributes to the creation of unique wines:

Pignoletto

Pignoletto is the region's most famous white grape. It produces fresh and elegant wines with aromas of white flowers and citrus notes. Pignoletto is also known as "the Prosecco of Emilia" for its lively effervescence.

Sangiovese

Sangiovese is the quintessential red grape of Emilia-Romagna and the Colli Bolognesi area. Wines made from this grape are rich in red fruit, with notes of cherry and spice.

Barbera

Barbera is another red grape widely grown in the Bologna hills. Barbera wines are known for their lively acidity and fruity character, perfect for pairing with local cuisine.

The Famous Wines

The Bolognese Hills are known for a variety of exquisite wines, but some stand out for their excellence:

Pignoletto Frizzante DOCG

Pignoletto Frizzante is one of the region's most renowned white wines. Its lively effervescence makes it perfect as an aperitif, while its floral aromas make it suitable for a wide range of dishes.

Sangiovese dei Colli Bolognesi DOC

This red wine represents the excellence of the Colli Bolognesi. Made with Sangiovese as the main grape, it is a structured and complex wine, ideal for meat dishes and cheeses.

Visit the Bolognese Hills

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

The Colli Bolognesi are an enological treasure trove of Emilia-Romagna, a wine destination enchanting with its history and authentic wines. With a unique terroir and a variety of extraordinary wines, this region deserves to be explored by every wine lover. Don't miss the opportunity to taste the wines of the Colli Bolognesi and discover the charm of this wine region.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main grape variety used for the white wines of the Colli Bolognesi? The main grape variety used for the white wines of the Colli Bolognesi is Pignoletto.

Where are the Colli Bolognesi located? The Colli Bolognesi are located south of Bologna, in Emilia-Romagna, northern Italy.

What is the predominant grape variety in the red wines of the Colli Bolognesi? The predominant grape variety in the red wines of the Colli Bolognesi is Sangiovese.

What is the region's most famous wine? Pignoletto Frizzante DOCG is one of the most well-known and appreciated wines of the Colli Bolognesi.