Hills of Central Etruria

Denomination: Colli dell'Etruria Centrale

Tuscany is world-renowned for its scenic beauty, rich culture, and, of course, its extraordinary wines. One of Tuscany's hidden treasures is the Colli dell'Etruria Centrale appellation, a wine region that produces some of the region's most exquisite wines. In this article, we'll explore the magic of the Colli dell'Etruria Centrale, its main grape varieties, and the resulting wines.

The History of the Hills of Central Etruria

The Central Etrurian Hills boast a winemaking history that dates back centuries. The first written records of wine production in this region date back to the Etruscan era. However, it was only in 1980 that this area obtained the Controlled Designation of Origin (DOC) status, recognizing its quality and winemaking tradition.

Unique Terroir

The terroir of the Central Etrurian Hills is truly unique. This region is characterized by rolling hills, sun-exposed vineyards, and ideal climatic conditions for growing grapes. The soil varies from limestone to clay, giving the wines a complex array of aromas and flavors. The climate is mild, with a slight influence from the Tyrrhenian Sea, which helps maintain an optimal temperature year-round.

The Main Grape Varieties

In the hills of Central Etruria, various native and international grape varieties are grown, each of which contributes to the creation of unique wines:

Sangiovese

Sangiovese is the quintessential red grape of this region and of Tuscany as a whole. It produces elegant red wines, characterized by notes of cherries, red fruits, and spices. Sangiovese from the Colli dell'Etruria Centrale is known for its structure and balance.

Tuscan Trebbiano

Trebbiano Toscano is the main white grape used to produce fresh, aromatic white wines. This grape imparts aromas of white fruit and a pleasant acidity to the wines, making them ideal for pairing with fish and light dishes.

Merlot

Merlot is an international grape variety that has adapted beautifully to the hills of central Etruria. Merlot wines are known for their smoothness, with aromas of dark fruit and lightly spicy notes.

The Famous Wines

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

Colli dell'Etruria Centrale Sangiovese DOC

This red wine represents the region's excellence. Made with Sangiovese as the main grape, it's an elegant and complex wine, perfect for pairing with traditional Tuscan dishes like Florentine steak.

Central Etruria Hills Trebbiano Toscano DOC

Trebbiano Toscano DOC is a fresh and aromatic white wine, with aromas of white fruit and a pleasant acidity. It is an excellent pairing with seafood dishes and fresh cheeses.

Visiting the Hills of Central Etruria

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 discover the production process and savor the wines directly from the source.

The Central Etrurian Hills are a wine destination that enchants 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 Central Etrurian 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 Colli dell'Etruria Centrale? The main grape variety used for the red wines of the Colli dell'Etruria Centrale is Sangiovese.

Where are the Central Etrurian Hills located? The Central Etrurian Hills are located in Tuscany, central Italy.

What is the predominant grape variety in the white wines of the Colli dell'Etruria Centrale? The predominant grape variety in the white wines of the Colli dell'Etruria Centrale is Trebbiano Toscano.

What is the region's most famous wine? Colli dell'Etruria Centrale Sangiovese DOC is one of the region's most famous and renowned wines.