Calabria

In Calabria, wine-growing has a very low impact on the agricultural sector, accounting for less than 7%, even though the region has an oenological history dating to ancient times. When the Greeks arrived in southern Italy, they called the inhabitants of Calabria ‘Enotri’ because of their ability to produce wine.

Eighty per cent of the wine is made from black grapes, including the most important and well-known variety: Gaglioppo. There are 9 designations in the region but the best known is Cirò from vineyards cultivated on the hills immediately inland from the coast of Cirò Marina, in the province of Crotone. These vineyards overlook the Ionian Sea; they are warmed by the morning sun and grow in calcareous-clayey soil. Cirò Rosso DOC wines are made from at least 80% Gaglioppo grapes, have a ruby-red colour tending towards garnet, and fruity, spicy aromas that become earthy as they evolve. They have good quality tannins and can be more or less structured. The Cirò Rosato DOC wines, made from the same Gaglioppo grape variety, are also very interesting, balanced and savoury. Cirò Bianco DOC, which is not very common, is made from the Greco Bianco grape variety, also known as Guardavalle.