Colli del Sangro IGP

Colli del Sangro IGP

41°50'N

LATITUDE

13°50'E

LONGITUDE

12

APPELATIONS

about this subregion

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.

Associations

vinerra illustration
1

Vineyard Hectares

0

WINERIES

2500-3000 GDD

GROWING DEGREE DAYS

Discover Terroir

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.

  1. Clayey Loam: One of the predominant soil types in the region, clayey loam, is a blend of clay, silt, and sand. This type of soil retains moisture effectively, ensuring that vines remain hydrated during the warmer months. Wines from these soils often exhibit pronounced mineral notes and a rich, structured palate due to the water retention properties of clay.
  2. Calcareous Marl: Areas with calcareous marl are scattered throughout the region. This alkaline soil type, rich in calcium carbonate, ensures good drainage and offers a cool environment for roots. Wines cultivated from this type of soil often possess a remarkable finesse, heightened aromatics, and a subtle mineral edge.
  3. Alluvial Soils: Found mainly in the valleys, these soils are a mix of sand, silt, and clay, transported by water actions over millennia. They are often layered and diverse, allowing roots to penetrate deeply. Wines from alluvial soils typically display vibrant fruit expressions and a refreshing acidity, a result of the soil's good drainage and varied composition.
  4. Sandy Soils: Present in pockets, sandy soils warm up quickly and have excellent drainage properties. Vines planted in these soils often struggle, leading to lower yields but concentrated flavors. Wines from sandy soils usually exude pronounced aromatics and a delicate texture, coupled with an elegant fruit profile.

Discover

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.

  1. Chardonnay: Chardonnay, the world-renowned white grape variety, has found a unique home in Colli del Sangro. This grape produces wines that are often characterized by bright, fresh notes of green apple, citrus, and sometimes tropical fruit. A touch of minerality often underpins the aromatic profile, reflecting the specific soil characteristics of the region.
  2. Cococciola: Indigenous to the Abruzzo region, Cococciola is lesser-known but equally captivating. Wines made from this grape exude aromatic complexity, offering scents of green apple, white flowers, and sometimes a touch of honey. The palate is often fresh and zesty, making it a delightful option for those in search of a lighter, more aromatic white wine.
  3. Aglianico: Among the red varieties, Aglianico stands out for its depth and intensity. The grape produces wines that are robust and structured, with dark fruit aromas like black cherry and plum, often accompanied by hints of tobacco, leather, and spice. These wines are well-suited for aging, where they can develop even more complex flavors and aromas.
  4. Barbera: Barbera is celebrated for its high acidity and juicy berry flavors, which make it incredibly versatile in winemaking. The grape's aromatic profile often includes notes of black cherry, raspberry, and sometimes a touch of vanilla or spice when aged in oak. Despite its intensity, Barbera wines often have a lighter body, making them accessible and enjoyable for a variety of palates.

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.

  1. Bianco:The Bianco wines from this IGP exhibit a tantalizing mix of flavors and aromas. Reflecting the myriad grape varieties approved for the region, these wines often portray refreshing citrusy notes, underlined by nuanced hints of white flowers, stone fruits, and an endearing minerality. Their crisp acidity and balanced body make them delightful partners to a host of dishes.
  2. Bianco Varietals:Showcasing specific grape varieties, these wines allow drinkers to delve deeper into the individual characters of the grapes. From the floral elegance of Cococciola to the zesty charm of Pinot Grigio, each varietal provides its distinctive bouquet of aromas, often marked by fruity, floral, and sometimes herbaceous notes.
  3. Rosato:Rosato wines from Colli del Sangro capture the essence of summer in a glass. Their vibrant hues are matched by equally lively aromas of red berries, watermelon, and rose petals. On the palate, they offer a delicate balance of acidity and fruitiness, making them versatile partners at the table.
  4. Rosso:The red wines exude warmth and depth. Whether it’s the rich berry aromas of Sangiovese or the spicy undertones of Syrah, these wines offer a complex tapestry of flavors. Their well-structured tannins and enduring finish make them ideal companions for hearty meals.
  5. Rosso Varietals:These wines are a deep dive into the essence of specific red grapes. Whether it's the bold character of Aglianico with its notes of dark fruit and leather or the juicy allure of Barbera radiating cherry and blackberry nuances, each varietal tells its unique story.
  6. Bianco Passito:A celebration of sweetness, the Bianco Passito wines are lusciously aromatic. Evoking scents of dried apricots, honey, and exotic spices, they possess a rich palate that is both sweet and refreshingly acidic, ensuring a well-rounded tasting experience.
  7. Rosso Passito:The red counterpart to the Bianco Passito, these wines are opulent and deeply flavorful. Concentrated notes of dried figs, raisins, and chocolate dominate the aroma, while the palate is a harmonious blend of sweetness, tannin, and acidity.
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