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Untapped Wonders of Calabria: Italy's Hidden Wine Gem



Calabria is a region located in the southern part of Italy, between the Tyrrhenian and Ionian Seas. It has a rich history dating back to ancient times, with evidence of Greek and Roman settlements. The region was also home to many other civilizations throughout history, including the Byzantines, Arabs, Normans, and Spanish, all of whom left their mark on the culture and traditions of the area.

Wine has been an essential part of the Calabrian culture for centuries. The region has a long winemaking tradition, dating back to ancient times when the Greeks first introduced viticulture to the area. Today, the region is home to a wide range of grape varieties, many of which are native to the area. Some of the most popular native grape varieties include Gaglioppo, Magliocco, Greco Bianco, and Mantonico.

Calabria's terroir is characterized by its warm, Mediterranean climate, which is ideal for growing grapes. The region's soil is also varied, with everything from volcanic to limestone soils. The combination of climate and soil creates unique growing conditions that give Calabrian wines their distinctive flavors and aromas.


Several styles of wine are produced in Calabria, ranging from crisp white wines to full-bodied reds. Some of the most famous wines from the region include Cirò Rosso, a red wine made from the Gaglioppo grape, and Greco Bianco, a white wine made from the Greco Bianco grape. Other notable regional wines include Savuto, a red blend made from Gaglioppo and other local grape varieties, and Donnici, a red wine from Magliocco.

In recent years, Calabrian wines have gained recognition in the international wine community, with more producers focusing on quality winemaking techniques and sustainable viticulture practices. For US wine consumers, Calabria offers a unique opportunity to explore lesser-known grape varieties and wine styles not commonly found in other regions of Italy or the world.

Five Reasons Wine Lovers should try:

GRECO BIANCO

  1. Unique flavor profile: Greco Bianco from Calabria offers a unique flavor profile that is both complex and aromatic. It is known for its dried apricot, peach, orange notes, and a resiny and tannic palate.
  2. Versatility: Greco Bianco can be made in both dry and sweet styles, making it a versatile wine paired with various dishes.
  3. Historical significance: The Greco Bianco grape is one of the oldest grape varieties in Italy and has been grown in Calabria for centuries, making it an essential part of the region's winemaking heritage.
  4. Limited production: Greco Bianco is produced in limited quantities, making it a rare find for wine enthusiasts looking for something special and unique.
  5. Affordable price point: While some Italian wines can be pretty expensive, Greco Bianco from Calabria is often offered at an affordable price point, making it an excellent value for consumers looking for high-quality wines without breaking the bank.

GAGLIOPPO

  1. Unique flavor profile: Gaglioppo is a natural crossing of Sangiovese and Mantonico, resulting in a distinctive flavor profile. The wine has a deep ruby red color and exudes aromas of small red berries and citrus zest, with mineral and delicate underbrush notes. This flavor profile is not unlike a lighter, more saline Nebbiolo wine.
  2. Historical significance: Gaglioppo is one of Italy's oldest grape varieties, grown in Calabria for centuries. In fact, a wine that was believed to have been made with Gaglioppo called Krimisa was awarded to the winners of the Olympic games.
  3. Food pairing versatility: Gaglioppo's acidity and tannins make it an excellent wine for pairing with food. It pairs well with various dishes, including roasted meats, tomato-based sauces, and aged cheeses.
  4. Quality production: The best Gaglioppo wines are made around the Cirò area of Calabria, where the grape thrives in the local terroir. These wines are produced by skilled winemakers who preserve the grape's unique flavor profile.
  5. Rosé options: Gaglioppo also makes excellent Rosato wines. The best Rosatos are made using the saignée method, where the grape juice is removed from the skins after only a brief maceration period. The resulting wine is fresh, fruity, and perfect for enjoying on a warm summer day.

 🍷🇮🇹 #CalabriaWines #ItalianWineCulture #UnderratedGems


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