Colli Aprutini IGP

Colli Aprutini IGP

42°40'N

LATITUDE

13°42'E

LONGITUDE

11

APPELATIONS

about this subregion

Nestled within the serene province of Teramo, the Colli Aprutini IGP boasts a landscape as varied and rich as its wine legacy. This "Hills of Abruzzo" region is a harmonious blend of undulating terrains, from gentle slopes caressed by the Adriatic breezes to the more rugged elevations that stand as silent sentinels guarding age-old viticultural traditions.

The Colli Aprutini's environment is a testament to nature's generosity. Fertile soils, fed by crystal-clear mountain streams, cradle the vineyards, offering them a nourishing embrace. The climate, a symphony of Mediterranean warmth and Alpine freshness, shapes the character of the wines, gifting them with an impeccable balance of intensity and elegance.

Central to the narrative of Colli Aprutini are its grape varieties, each telling a distinct tale of the region. The aromatic allure of Viognier paints the white wine canvas with notes of blossoms and apricots. In contrast, Vermentino adds a zesty freshness, evoking images of citrus groves bathed in sunlight. The reds are no less captivating. Canaiolo, with its delicate fruit nuances, offers a counterpoint to the robust and hearty Cannonau, which speaks of sun-drenched days and cool, starry nights.

In essence, the Colli Aprutini IGP is not merely a wine designation but a journey into a realm where nature, tradition, and passion converge, resulting in liquid masterpieces that resonate with the soul of Abruzzo.

Associations

vinerra illustration
228

Vineyard Hectares

0

WINERIES

1300-1500 GDD

GROWING DEGREE DAYS

Discover Terroir

Nestled within the heart of Italy's Abruzzo region, the Colli Aprutini IGP unfolds as a tapestry of verdant hills, sprawling vineyards, and picturesque villages. The undulating terrain, framed by the mighty Apennine Mountains, cascades gently towards the Adriatic Sea, creating a myriad of microclimates that bless the land with a unique viticultural potential.

The region is characterized by a harmonious blend of natural elements. Olive groves intertwine with vineyard rows, their silvery leaves dancing in the wind, contrasting against the deep green of the vines. Ancient stone walls, remnants of a rich history, meander through the countryside, bearing silent testimony to centuries of agricultural tradition.

The soil varies, offering a combination of clay, limestone, and mineral-rich deposits, each contributing distinct characteristics to the wines born from this earth. Streams and rivulets crisscross the landscape, their gentle murmurs accompanying the symphony of nature that fills the air.

As one traverses the region, they're greeted by the sights of medieval towns and hamlets perched atop hills, their terracotta rooftops gleaming under the Italian sun. These settlements, with their winding alleys and historical monuments, stand as guardians of the region's rich heritage.

In the heart of Colli Aprutini, it's evident that the land and the vine share an intimate bond, with the landscape having been sculpted over time by the diligent hands of generations of vignerons. The result is a serene, bucolic paradise that not only produces outstanding wines but also captivates the soul with its timeless beauty.

The climate of Colli Aprutini IGP is a harmonious interplay of land and sea, a symphony orchestrated by nature's most primal forces. Sheltered by the imposing embrace of the Apennine Mountains to the west and serenaded by the gentle breezes of the Adriatic Sea to the east, the vineyards thrive in a climate that is both mild and varied, ensuring the grapes evolve with a rich tapestry of flavors and aromas.

Winters here are moderate, with the mountains acting as a protective shield against the harshest cold. The snow-capped peaks in the distance often stand in stark contrast to the green or autumnal hues of the vineyards below. Spring arrives with a soft touch, gently waking the dormant vines with its mild warmth and occasional rainfall, which refreshes the soil and sets the stage for the growth season.

Summer brings with it the brilliance of the sun, its rays pouring over the hills and valleys, bathing the vineyards in golden light. But it's never overwhelmingly hot, thanks to the cooling maritime breezes that waft in from the Adriatic. These winds, laden with a hint of salt and the stories of distant shores, moderate the temperatures and help reduce humidity, ensuring the grapes mature steadily without the risk of disease.

Autumn is perhaps the most poetic time in Colli Aprutini. The air grows crisp, and the vine leaves begin their transformation, painting the landscape in hues of amber, crimson, and gold. The diurnal temperature variation, marked by warm days and cool nights, aids in the accumulation of aromatics and the perfect balance of sugars and acids in the grapes.

In essence, the climate of Colli Aprutini IGP is a nurturing guardian, its rhythms and moods shaping the very soul of the wines, imparting them with a character that is both unique and reflective of this enchanting corner of Italy.

In the Colli Aprutini, the very essence of the wines is deeply rooted in the soil. The diverse geological tapestry of this region speaks of ancient seas, tectonic shifts, and the relentless passage of time, all of which have shaped and enriched the land over eons. These soils not only nourish the vines but also impart distinct characteristics to the wines, providing them with complexity and a unique sense of place.

  1. Clayey Soils:Found predominantly in the lower lying areas, clayey soils are known for their water-retentive properties. Their dense structure offers good support to the vine roots, ensuring consistent nourishment. Wines from these soils are often characterized by their full-bodied nature, with a robust structure and pronounced earthy notes, often combined with dark fruit flavors.
  2. Calcareous Soils:The presence of limestone in parts of Colli Aprutini has resulted in calcareous soils, which are alkaline in nature. These soils play a pivotal role in producing wines with bright acidity and minerality. The reflective nature of limestone also assists in the ripening process, contributing to the development of vibrant fruit aromas and a palpable sense of terroir in the wines.
  3. Sandy Soils:The ancient seabeds of the region have bestowed some areas with sandy soils. Well-draining and light, these soils often lead to vines with deeper root systems, seeking moisture and nutrients. Wines from sandy soils typically exhibit elegance, with delicate aromatics and a silky mouthfeel.
  4. Loamy Soils:A balanced blend of sand, silt, and clay, loamy soils offer the best of all worlds. They provide good water retention while ensuring adequate drainage, making them highly favorable for viticulture. Wines from these soils are often well-rounded, combining the fruit-forward nature from sandy regions with the structure and depth of clay-dominated areas.

Discover

The vineyards of Colli Aprutini IGP stand as an artful mosaic of colors, textures, and fragrances. Amidst the sun-kissed terrains, clusters of Viognier, Vermentino, Canaiolo, and Cannonau grapes dangle with poetic elegance. Their vibrant hues, ranging from the translucent golds of the whites to the deep, ruby allure of the reds, capture the essence of the Teramo landscape.

  1. Viognier:A grape of undeniable charm, Viognier showcases a golden-yellow radiance in the vineyard. Its wines are an aromatic escapade into realms of stone fruits and florals. Notes of peach, apricot, and sometimes a hint of honeycomb are beautifully intertwined with fragrances of blossoms like honeysuckle and jasmine. On the palate, Viognier often surprises with its voluptuous body and lingering minerality.
  2. Vermentino:With its light straw hue, Vermentino is the embodiment of the Mediterranean spirit. The nose is greeted with invigorating scents of lime, green apple, and a whisper of almond. In the mouth, its crisp acidity is complemented by a nuanced salinity, evoking images of the Adriatic coastline, making it a refreshing choice for balmy afternoons.
  3. Canaiolo:Painting the landscape with its deep blue-black berries, Canaiolo is a red grape with a gentle heart. Aromatically, it offers a bouquet of red cherries, violets, and a touch of earthy underbrush. On tasting, its medium body and soft tannins make it an elegant companion to a wide array of dishes.
  4. Cannonau:Known to many as Grenache, but distinctly Italian in its expression in the Colli Aprutini, Cannonau clusters glow with a warm ruby intensity. Its aromatic profile is a rich tapestry of ripe strawberries, black cherries, and hints of white pepper. On the palate, it stands bold with well-structured tannins and a warmth that mirrors the sun-drenched lands from which it hails.

Colli Aprutini IGP is a canvas painted with a variety of hues, each representing the vast array of wines birthed in this prolific region. The Teramo province of Abruzzo gives winemakers a broad spectrum of grape varieties to craft wines that capture the essence of the land, the climate, and the centuries-old traditions.

  1. Bianco: Crafted from any blend of the approved grape varieties of Abruzzo, Colli Aprutini Bianco wines often present a harmonious melding of fruity and floral aromas. Depending on the specific grapes, one might detect hints of apple, pear, or citrus zest, complemented by floral undertones. On the palate, these wines tend to be fresh, with balanced acidity and a pleasing minerality.
  2. Bianco Varietals: Dominated by a minimum of 85% from an array of distinguished white grape varieties, these wines offer a more focused expression of the chosen grape. Expect intense aromatic profiles ranging from the tropical nuances of Chardonnay to the herbaceous hints of Sauvignon Blanc or the citrus punch of Vermentino. Their flavors resonate with the specific characteristics of the dominant grape, offering both depth and complexity.
  3. Rosato: Rosato wines of Colli Aprutini mirror the beauty of Abruzzo's sunsets. Typically refreshing and vibrant, these rosés may carry scents of strawberries, raspberries, and rose petals. Their palate is a delicate balance of fruitiness, zesty acidity, and a touch of savory complexity.
  4. Rosso: A celebration of Abruzzo's red grape varieties, these wines are a true testament to the region's viticultural prowess. Expect a palette rich in red and black fruits, such as cherries and plums, combined with nuances of spices, leather, or even tobacco. Their flavor profile is robust, with tannins that range from velvety to structured.
  5. Rosso Varietals: At least 85% of chosen red grape varieties, these wines offer a deep dive into individual grape characteristics. Whether it's the blackberry richness of Merlot, the peppery touch of Syrah, or the cherry-laden profile of Sangiovese, each varietal wine promises a unique sensory experience.
  6. Bianco Passito: These are the sun-drenched treasures of Colli Aprutini. Made from dried white grapes, the passito style intensifies flavors and aromas. Anticipate notes of dried apricots, honey, almonds, and perhaps a touch of candied citrus peel. On the tongue, they balance sweetness with acidity, resulting in a nectar-like wine that lingers.
  7. Rosso Passito: The red counterpart to the Bianco Passito, these wines are crafted from dried red grapes. Aromatic profiles dive deep into realms of dried figs, raisins, and chocolate-covered cherries. Their taste is opulent, with a sweet richness balanced by the grape's inherent acidity and tannic structure.
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