Territories

Collio, or Collio Goriziano, is a prestigious wine region located in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region of northeastern Italy, right at the border with Slovenia. Known for its outstanding white wines, Collio is more than just a viticultural area; it’s a confluence of history, unique geographical attributes, geology, rich culinary traditions, and, of course, its illustrious wines.

History: Collio’s history is as multifaceted as its terrains. Over the centuries, it has witnessed an ebb and flow of various cultures, from the Romans to the Habsburgs, and the Venetians to the Slavs. This strategic location at the crossroads of Slavic, Germanic, and Latin cultures has bestowed Collio with a vibrant tapestry of customs, languages, and traditions. Its historical timeline, marked with wars and shifting borders, has played an instrumental role in shaping its current identity, especially in its wine and food culture.

Geography: Straddling the Italian-Slovenian border, Collio’s geography is characterized by rolling hills that gently slope from the Julian Alps down to the Adriatic Sea. This gradient creates a series of microclimates ideal for viticulture. The region benefits from the cool breezes descending from the Alps, balanced with the warm air currents from the Adriatic, ensuring a temperate climate that’s optimal for grape growing.

Geology: A significant aspect of Collio’s winemaking prowess is its distinctive geology. The soil, known locally as “ponca,” is a stratified marl and sandstone mix. This soil composition, a result of ancient sea sedimentation and tectonic shifts, is particularly porous and mineral-rich, lending the wines of Collio their unmistakable minerality and character. The vineyards are meticulously terraced, ensuring maximum sunlight exposure and optimal drainage, further enhancing the terroir-driven profile of the wines.

Food: The gastronomy of Collio is as diverse as its history. Influences from neighboring Austria, Slovenia, and Hungary converge with Italian traditions to offer a rich culinary repertoire. Dishes like frico (a crispy cheese pancake) and cjarsons (sweet and savory ravioli) highlight the region’s dairy and agricultural abundance. Prosciutto from nearby San Daniele and the sea’s bounty also feature prominently in the local cuisine, offering a delightful balance of land and sea.

Wine: Collio’s fame in the wine world primarily rests on its white wines. Crafted from varieties like Friulano, Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc, Collio’s wines are celebrated for their aromatic complexity, full-bodied structure, and pronounced minerality. Winemaking here is both an art and science, with a harmonious blend of traditional practices and modern techniques. The Collio DOC designation stands as a testament to the region’s unwavering commitment to quality and authenticity.

WINERIES

Il Carpino

Meroi

Nestled in the heart of the Piedmont region in northwestern Italy, Langhe stands as a testament to Italy’s rich viticultural and culinary legacy. This UNESCO World Heritage site, characterized by its rolling vine- covered hills, is not just a hub of world-class wines but also a crucible of history, unique geographical features, distinct geology, and sumptuous food.

History: The history of Langhe is as rich and complex as the wines it produces. The region, having been settled since ancient times, witnessed the ebb and flow of various civilizations, including the Ligurians, the Romans, and the Lombards. Over the centuries, Langhe, due to its strategic location, became a sought-after territory, resulting in numerous battles and shifts in dominion. But through these tumultuous times, one constant remained: the cultivation of vines, a tradition dating back to the Romans, if not earlier.

Geography: Langhe’s geographical charm lies in its sweeping landscapes dotted with medieval towns. Located to the south and east of the river Tanaro, its terrain is predominantly hilly, providing the ideal canvas for its renowned vineyards. These hills protect the vineyards from harsh weather, while the river microclimate assists in the perfect maturation of grapes.

Geology: The soil of Langhe is a significant factor behind its wine supremacy. The region’s geology comprises calcareous clay marls, interspersed with sand and silt. This composition is the result of ancient sea sedimentation followed by tectonic uplift. The permeability and richness of the soil not only ensure robust vine growth but also impart a unique minerality to the wines.

Food: Langhe is as much a culinary paradise as it is a wine mecca. The white truffle of Alba, one of the world’s most sought-after and prized gastronomic treasures, hails from here. Traditional dishes like “tajarin” (thin egg pasta) and “agnolotti del plin” (pinched ravioli) are laced with butter and truffles, embodying the richness of Langhian cuisine. Hazelnuts, too, are a regional specialty, celebrated globally through products like Nutella. Moreover, cheeses such as Toma and Robiola add to the region’s dairy delights.

Wine: Langhe’s global reputation in the wine arena is unparalleled. The region is home to Italy’s most iconic wines, Barolo and Barbaresco, often referred to as the “King” and “Queen” of Italian wines respectively. Made from the Nebbiolo grape, these wines are cherished for their depth, longevity, and complexity. However, the region’s viticultural prowess isn’t limited to reds. Wines made from Dolcetto and Barbera grapes offer a more approachable, fruit-forward profile. Additionally, the white Arneis and Moscato d’Asti showcase the region’s diversity and adaptability in winemaking.

WINERIES

Azelia Luigi Scavino

COLLIO

WINERIES

LANGHE

WINERIES