LATITUDE
LONGITUDE
APPELATIONS
Nestled within the province of Chieti, the Colli del Sangro IGP is a testament to the harmonious interplay between nature and viticulture. Its environment is a striking blend of gently undulating hills, verdant valleys, and the whispering waters of the Sangro river, painting a serene backdrop for the vineyards that have flourished here for centuries.
The climate, a delicate balance of Mediterranean warmth and Adriatic breezes, ensures that each grape variety reaches optimal ripeness, imbuing the wines with a signature depth and character. Among the vines, four grape varieties stand out for their pronounced influence on the region's vinous identity.
Chardonnay, with its global acclaim, finds a unique expression here. Its wines emanate fresh citrus notes, underlined by a subtle minerality reminiscent of the soil. Cococciola, an indigenous gem, produces wines that are fresh and aromatic, with hints of green apple and white flowers. On the red spectrum, Aglianico thrives, yielding wines of great structure and intensity, marked by dark fruit flavors and a touch of spice. Barbera, with its vibrant acidity and juicy berry notes, completes the quartet, contributing to the diverse wine tapestry of Colli del Sangro.
At its core, the Colli del Sangro IGP is a celebration of its environment, where traditional winemaking methods meet the bounties of nature, producing wines that resonate with authenticity and terroir-driven excellence.
Vineyard Hectares
WINERIES
GROWING DEGREE DAYS
Nestled within the heart of the Abruzzo region, the Colli del Sangro IGP paints a picturesque landscape that appears to have sprung from the pages of a classic Italian tale. As its name suggests, "Colli del Sangro" means "Hills of the Sangro", and indeed, the territory is characterized by undulating hills that cascade towards the Sangro River, which gracefully weaves its way through the land.
The topography varies from gentle slopes to more pronounced hilltops, offering a mosaic of microclimates that play a pivotal role in grape cultivation. These rolling terrains are bathed in abundant sunshine, which, when combined with the cool breezes descending from the nearby Apennine Mountains, ensures a steady maturation of the grapes.
Between the hills, one can find a tapestry of vineyards, interspersed with olive groves and wooded areas, painting a serene image of rural life. Ancient towns and villages dot the landscape, their stone walls and medieval towers bearing witness to the rich history and culture of the region. As one moves through the terrain, the glinting Adriatic Sea appears on the horizon, its proximity lending a salinity to the air and influencing the unique character of the wines produced here.
In essence, the Colli del Sangro IGP is not just a wine-producing region; it's a harmonious blend of nature, history, and viticulture, offering a timeless landscape that resonates deeply with the traditions of Italian winemaking.
Colli del Sangro IGP, located in the province of Chieti, experiences a climate that elegantly intertwines the influences of both the nearby Adriatic Sea and the looming Apennine Mountains. This confluence of maritime and mountainous elements gives the region its distinct climatic characteristics, vital for the vineyards that drape its hills.
The Adriatic Sea, shimmering to the east, plays the role of a benevolent moderator. It ensures that winters remain relatively mild and summers are tempered by a gentle, cooling breeze, which occasionally carries with it a touch of salinity. This maritime influence aids in preserving the acidity and aromatic freshness of the grapes, an essential component for crafting wines of depth and longevity.
Conversely, the Apennine Mountains, with their towering presence, provide protection from the cold northern winds, creating a natural barrier that shelters the vineyards. But these mountains also invite down cool drafts, especially during the evenings. This diurnal temperature variation—warm days followed by cooler nights—is a boon for grape growers, as it encourages the gradual and consistent ripening of the fruit, allowing for the development of complex flavors and aromas.
Furthermore, the region enjoys ample sunshine, ensuring that grapes receive sufficient warmth for maturation. However, occasional rain showers, often delivered by the sea, punctuate the growing season, providing relief to the vines and ensuring they remain hydrated and healthy.
In essence, the climate of Colli del Sangro IGP is a harmonious dance between sun, sea, and mountains—a balance that translates directly into the elegance, richness, and diversity of the wines birthed from its soils.
The soils of Colli del Sangro IGP are a testament to the region's rich geological history, and they play a pivotal role in shaping the character and personality of the wines. These diverse soils lend the grapes unique flavors, aromas, and textures, contributing immensely to the region's winemaking reputation.
The vineyards of Colli del Sangro IGP are a spectacle of vibrant green canopies and clusters of grapes in various hues, from the translucent greenish-yellow of Chardonnay to the deep, rich colors of Aglianico and Barbera. Each grape variety brings its own physical attributes to this captivating landscape, forming a patchwork of vines that is as diverse as it is beautiful.
The wines from the Colli del Sangro IGP are as diverse as the landscape they emerge from. The rolling hills of the region produce wines that are not only varied in color and texture but are also profoundly expressive in taste and aroma. These wines showcase the richness of the Abruzzo terroir, where a harmonious blend of native and international grape varieties thrive.