LIGURIA
Location
Liguria, also known as the Italian Riviera, is a thin, crescent-shaped coastal region stretching 250 kilometers (150 miles) along the Mediterranean Sea. It runs from the border with the south of France in the west to the port city of La Spezia in the eas
Grape Variety:
Liguria is generally known for its white wines made from the Vermentino grape. Locally, Vermentino is called “Pigato” due to the spots (pighe) that appear on the mature grapes. Vermentino wines from Liguria have a fragrant nose reminiscent of pine woods and sea salt, along with an underlying minerality
Climate:
The region’s Mediterranean climate, combined with poor, stony soils, creates a unique microclimate that is perfect for growing grapes. The steep elevations protect the vineyards near the sea from the coldest winter winds blowing down from the Alps.
History:
Despite challenging growing conditions, vines have been cultivated in Liguria for over 25 centuries. The Etruscans and Greeks introduced viticulture to the area, and later, during Roman times, the picturesque Cinque Terre (Five Lands) emerged as a famous wine-producing area
Famous Wines:
Cinque Terre: A series of five picturesque villages in the province of La Spezia, known for producing crisp, light white wines mainly from Bosco, Albarola, and Vermentino grapes.
Riviera Ligure di Ponente: Another region producing artisan white wines from Vermentino grapes.
Colli di Luni: Located near the border with Tuscany, this area produces both white and red wines.
Val Polcevera: Known for its red wines.
Rossese di Dolceacqua: A red wine made from the Rossese grape variety.