LATITUDE
LONGITUDE
APPELATIONS
The Melissa DOC, located in the Calabria region of southern Italy, is a hidden gem in the world of wine production. Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Calabria, this Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC) region boasts a unique environment that plays a pivotal role in shaping its exceptional wines.
The Melissa DOC enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm, sunny days and mild evenings, with the Tyrrhenian Sea to the west and the Ionian Sea to the east, providing a moderating influence on temperatures. This combination of climate and geography creates the ideal conditions for cultivating grapes with vibrant flavors and distinctive characteristics.
Among the main grape varieties cultivated in the Melissa DOC, the Gaglioppo grape takes center stage as the most planted red grape variety. Gaglioppo, indigenous to Calabria, gives rise to bold and full-bodied red wines with flavors of dark berries and a touch of spice, reflecting the region's terroir.
On the white wine front, the Melissa DOC showcases the Greco grape, which reigns supreme as the most planted white grape variety. Greco grapes thrive in this terroir, producing crisp and refreshing white wines with notes of citrus and minerality, making them a delightful complement to the region's seafood-rich cuisine.
The Melissa DOC encapsulates the essence of Calabria, capturing the terroir's essence in every sip. Its unique environmental attributes and dedication to these grape varieties contribute to wines that are a true reflection of the region's character and charm. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or simply seeking to explore the flavors of southern Italy, the Melissa DOC promises an unforgettable journey through its wines.
Vineyard Hectares
WINERIES
GROWING DEGREE DAYS
The vineyards of the Melissa DOC, that is part of the Calabria wine region, overlap with those of the DOC Ciró, which is why the two regions are often referred to as one. The municipality of Melissa, where the DOC is located, is about 10 km from the town of Ciró. The vineyards in the region can be located at an altitude of up to 425 meters.
As in many regions of Calabria, the Mediterranean Sea acts as a moderator of the intense heat of southern Italy during the summer. In addition, it receives breezes that help minimize the risk of fungal diseases.
The region's soil is composed mainly of clay and lime.
Most Planted Red Grape Varieties: Gaglioppo
Most Planted White Grape Varieties: Greco
The Melissa DOC, nestled in the heart of Calabria, Italy, presents a trio of exceptional wines that capture the essence of the region's rich viticultural heritage.
Bianco, a delicate and harmonious creation, showcases the elegance of Greco Bianco grapes, complemented by a graceful dance of Malvasia Bianca and Trebbiano Toscano. This symphony of flavors results in a wine that resonates with notes of freshness and subtlety, a perfect companion for lighter moments. With an alcohol content of at least 11.5%, Bianco embodies the quintessence of balance.
Rosso and its distinguished counterpart, Rosso Superiore, unfurl a tapestry of flavors led by the resolute Gaglioppo grape. Rosso, with its minimum alcohol level of 12.5%, reveals an intriguing union of Gaglioppo and a harmonizing medley of Greco Bianco, Greco Nero, Malvasia Bianca, and Trebbiano Toscano. This blend captures the spirit of Calabria, delivering a robust yet approachable wine, reflecting the sun-soaked terroir.
For those seeking an elevated experience, Rosso Superiore beckons with its enigmatic allure. With a minimum aging requirement of 2 years, this wine matures gracefully, weaving together the strength of Gaglioppo with the complexity of Greco Bianco, Greco Nero, Malvasia Bianca, and Trebbiano Toscano. Its bold, well-rounded character and 13.0% alcohol content make it a testament to the region's winemaking prowess, inviting aficionados to savor the passage of time in every sip.
The Melissa DOC has crafted these wines with unwavering dedication, reflecting the land's essence and the hands that shape it. Each bottle carries a narrative of terroir, tradition, and transformation, inviting enthusiasts to embark on a sensory journey through the flavors of Calabria