Hills of Parma

Parma Hills denomination

Emilia-Romagna is a region of Italy renowned for its food and wine traditions, and the Colli di Parma are no exception. This wine region, located in the province of Parma, is renowned for its high-quality wines and picturesque landscape. In this article, we'll explore the Colli di Parma, its main grape varieties, and the wines that make this region so special.

The History of the Parma Hills

The Parma Hills boast a rich and ancient winemaking history. Wine production in this region dates back to Roman times, but it was only in 1987 that it obtained the Controlled Designation of Origin (DOC) designation. This recognition was the result of the hard work of local winemakers and their dedication to quality.

Unique Terroir

The terroir of the Parma Hills is unique and contributes significantly to the quality of their wines. The sun-drenched hills, clay and limestone soils, and temperate climate make this region ideal for growing grapes. The climate is influenced by the Adriatic Sea and the cool winds of the Apennines, creating optimal conditions for grape ripening.

The Main Grape Varieties

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

Malvasia

Malvasia is the main white grape used to produce aromatic, slightly sweet white wines. This grape imparts aromas of ripe fruit and white flowers, making it ideal for pairing with fish dishes and fresh cheeses.

Barbera

Barbera is the predominant red grape variety in the Parma Hills. It produces full-bodied and aromatic red wines, characterized by notes of cherries, red fruits, and spices. Barbera dei Colli di Parma is renowned for its structure and longevity.

Bonarda

Bonarda is another widely grown red grape in the region. Bonarda wines are known for their freshness, aromas of black fruit, and slightly spicy notes.

The Famous Wines

The Parma Hills boast a number of exquisite wines, but some stand out for their excellence:

Parma Hills Malvasia DOC

This aromatic white wine is one of the region's most representative wines. Made with Malvasia as the main grape, it offers balanced sweetness and ripe fruit aromas, perfect for pairing with desserts and blue cheeses.

Parma Hills Barbera DOC

Barbera is the star of the red wines of the Parma Hills. This red wine is known for its structure and aromas of ripe red fruits, ideal for meat dishes and aged cheeses.

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

The Parma Hills are a wine destination captivating with their 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 Parma Hills 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 di Parma? The main grape variety used for the white wines of the Colli di Parma is Malvasia.

Where are the Parma Hills located? The Parma Hills are located in the province of Parma, in Emilia-Romagna, northern Italy.

What is the predominant grape variety in the red wines of the Colli di Parma? The predominant grape variety in the red wines of the Colli di Parma is Barbera.

What is the region's most famous wine? Colli di Parma Malvasia DOC is one of the region's most famous and renowned wines.