Liguria
Liguria, a picturesque region nestled between mountains and sea, boasts a rich history of viticulture dating back to the Greek era. The region's vineyards, carved into mountain terraces and overlooking the sea, present a truly unique sight. The region produced more than 83,000 hl of wine in 2009, predominantly white wines, continuing its legacy of quality and tradition.
The prevalent grape varieties include Vermentino, Albarola, and Pigato. Vermentino is the most cultivated, known for its robust and aromatic profile. Albarola, believed to have Spanish origins and similarities with Hungarian Furmint, is also a popular choice. The Ligurian wines, especially those made from Pigato grapes, are the region's pride.
Ligurian wines are diverse, with notable varieties like Pigato, Dolcetto from Ormeasco di Pornassio DOC, and Rossese from Rossese di Dolceacqua DOC. The Rossese di Dolceacqua DOC, in particular, is a structured wine that resonates with the reds of Piedmont. The region also takes pride in its Cinque Terre Sciacchetrà DOC, a white dessert wine made from Vermentino, Albarola, and forest bunches.
| Region | Liguria |
|---|---|
| Country | Italy |
| Climate and soil | The region enjoys a temperate climate, courtesy of the sea breezes that offer relief during summers and temper the winters. The mountain ranges shield the coastal vineyards from the chill of northern winds, creating an ideal environment for viticulture. The soil, rich in minerals and well-drained, along with the evergreen vegetation, including maritime pine, olive, palm trees, cypress trees, and laurel, contributes to the unique flavor profile of Ligurian wines. |
| Red grape varieties | Barbera, Canaiolo Nero, Ciliegiolo, Dolcetto, Rossese, Sangiovese |
| White grape varieties | Bosco, Pigato, Trebbiano Toscano, Vermentino |
| DOC | Cinque Terre e Cinque Terre Sciacchetrà, Colli di Luni, Colline di Levanto, Golfo del Tigullio/Portofino, Ormeasco di Pornassio, Riviera Ligure di Ponente, Rossese di Dolceacqua, Val Polcèvera |
| IGT | Colline del Genovesato, Colline Savonesi, Liguria di Levante |