Top Calabria Wine Tourism Destinations
“In wine there is wisdom, in beer there is freedom, in water there is bacteria.” – Benjamin Franklin
Hey there! Ready to uncork the secrets of Calabria’s wine scene? You’re in for a treat as we explore Calabria wine tourism – a hidden gem in Italy’s boot that’s about to kick your taste buds into high gear!
Calabria might not be on everyone’s wine radar, but trust us; it’s a well-kept secret of grape-tastic experiences waiting to be discovered. Here’s what we’ll pour into your glass of knowledge:
The scoop on Calabria’s ancient winemaking roots (spoiler: it goes way back!)
A sip of the region’s star grapes: Gaglioppo and Greco Bianco
Your must-visit winery checklist (hello, Librandi and Statti!)
How to pair Calabrian wines with mouthwatering local bites
Did you know Calabria has its own wine VIP area called Cirò DOC? It’s been making waves since 1969! With stunning coastal vineyards and 11 sub-regions to explore, your wine adventure is just beginning.
Ready to swirl, sniff, and sip your way through Calabria? Keep reading to plan your wine escapade that’ll have you saying “Salute!” in no time!
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
Calabria’s winemaking heritage dates back to ancient Greek settlers. Indigenous grape varieties like Gaglioppo and Greco Bianco are central to the region’s high-quality wine production.
The Cirò DOC is Calabria’s oldest subregion. It emphasizes traditional winemaking with predominantly Gaglioppo red and Greco Bianco white wines, showcasing a deep historical and cultural heritage.
Key wineries such as Librandi, Statti Estate, and Roberto Ceraudo offer unique wine tourism experiences, including vineyard tours, tastings, and educational sessions. These highlight the region’s dedication to preserving its winemaking traditions.
Discovering Calabria’s Wine Heritage
Calabria’s viniculture dates back to the age of Magna Grecia. The ancient Greeks, in the VII century B.C., discovered the region’s soil and laid the foundation for a long winemaking tradition. Vineyard management in Calabria is often passed down through generations, and it’s a tradition deeply rooted in the region’s cultural identity.
At the heart of Calabria’s winemaking are the native grape varieties Gaglioppo and Greco Bianco, which love the dry and tough soil. Gaglioppo is the most used grape in Calabrian wine production, especially for reds. These grapes are not just landscape elements; they are the backbone of Calabrian wine, as rough and authentic as it gets. Whether red or white wines, Calabrian wines’ character proves the region’s commitment to preserving its winemaking traditions.
Calabria is an unknown wine region that produces high-quality wines that reflect a long winemaking tradition. Outside of Italy, Calabria is not well known, but it has a good reputation for making good wines inside the region. The focus on native grapes has been the hallmark of Calabrian wine. Visitors to Calabria can taste and visit the vineyards and get to know the winemaking process and the passion inside each bottle of Calabrian wine. The beautiful Calabrian landscape with the vineyards stretching to the horizon is a sight to see and evidence of the region’s stubbornness in the face of winemaking challenges.
The Cirò DOC: A Historical Gem
Cirò DOC, Calabria’s first and oldest wine sub-region, established in 1969, is a testament to the region’s deep-rooted winemaking history. Early Greek settlers introduced winemaking in Cirò, which has been integral to the region’s economy ever since. According to local mythology, the ancient Greek Olympians toasted the gods with Cirò wine, known as Cremissa, highlighting its historical significance. Historical records from the 4th century B.C. even indicate that vineyards in Cirò were six times more valuable than grain fields, underscoring the importance of wine in the local economy.
Gaglioppo, the primary grape in Cirò DOC, is predominantly used in red wine production. Cirò DOC wines include reds from at least 95% Gaglioppo grape and whites from at least 90% Greco Bianco grape. Traditional grafting methods, passed down through generations, are a precious heritage in Cirò.
Predominantly located in Cirò and Cirò Marina in Crotone, this stunning region allows visitors to traverse vineyards with centuries-old wine-producing histories, offering a harmonious blend of history, culture, and exceptional wines.
Key Indigenous Grapes of Calabria
Gaglioppo thrives in Calabria’s limestone soils and Mediterranean climate and develops high sugar levels with robust tannins
Tannins in Wine Tannins in wine are phen... More and high alcohol. Gaglioppo is the backbone of Calabria’s red wines and is known for its structure and aging potential. These deep ruby wines have complex dark fruit, herbs, and spices aromas.
Greco Bianco is another indigenous grape prized for its aromatic and complex white wines, especially in the Greco di Bianco DOC. This grape produces elegant and flavourful wines with citrus, white flowers, and minerality. Greco Nero is another grape that contributes to the variety of Calabria’s wines.
The indigenous grapes are different. The combination of local grapes, traditional methods, and terroir creates wines that are truly Calabrian. Wine tastings are the best way to taste these flavors and understand the winemaking traditions.
Coastal Vineyards: Unique Terroir and Flavor Profiles
Calabria’s coastal vineyards enjoy the Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The Tyrrhenian and Ionian Seas regulate the temperatures, making them perfect for grape growing.
The region’s varied soil, from coastal plains to mineral-rich rocky interiors, significantly impacts the terroir. Limestone, clay, and volcanic soils give the wines complexity and aroma. The Apennine Mountains create microclimates, allowing for a wide range of wines.
The diurnal temperature variation, especially in the mountains, gives the wines balance and rich flavors. Tastings at these coastal vineyards are the chance to experience the unique characteristics of Calabrian wines, shaped by the region’s terroir and climate. Each vineyard visit will show you the marriage between nature and winemaking, Calabria’s full-bodied and award-winning wines.
Must-Visit Wineries in Calabria
Several wineries in Calabria are must-visit destinations, offering unique experiences and exceptional wines. Among these, the following wineries stand out:
Librandi Winery is dedicated to preserving local grape varieties and comprehensive wine-tasting experiences.
Statti Estate: Offers a wide range of wines and is committed to sustainable winemaking practices.
Roberto Ceraudo Winery: Known for their high-quality wines and beautiful vineyards.
These wineries are worth a visit if you’re in Calabria.
Every winery allows visitors to soak up Calabrian wines’ rich heritage and diverse flavors through a winery tour, tastings, and educational sessions.
Librandi Winery
Librandi Winery is an institution in the Calabrian wine world, famous for its Cirò wines, which win awards every year and tell the story of the region. The winery’s commitment to the local grape varieties, Gaglioppo and Greco Bianco means that every bottle reflects the Calabrian territory. Visit Librandi and dive into the region’s wine tradition with vineyard tours and tastings of the winery’s wines.
Librandi’s history is undeniable. As one of the most important wineries in Calabria, it has brought the region’s wines to the international scene. The winery’s passion for quality and tradition makes it a must-visit for anyone who wants to explore the wine tradition of Calabria. Every wine tasting at Librandi is an unmissable experience, a journey through the history and flavors of Calabria.
Statti Estate
Statti Estate offers visitors a complete experience, with tastings of different wines and olive oils and educational sessions about the winemaking process. The estate is committed to sustainable practices in winemaking and olive oil production because it respects the land and its resources. Visitors can taste the estate’s wines and olive oils and learn about the characteristics of each one.
Educational sessions at Statti Estate cover:
Grape growing
Harvest
Fermentation
Aging
Bottling
These short courses and guided tours are perfect for wine lovers and beginners. Statti’s quality and sustainability, history, and beautiful location make it a must-visit on any wine tour of Calabria.
Roberto Ceraudo Winery
Roberto Ceraudo Winery is famous for its wines, crafted with love and respect for tradition. Every bottle is a statement of the winery’s excellence. Visitors can visit the vineyard and taste the wines that tell the story of Calabria’s territory.
The highlight of a visit to Roberto Ceraudo Winery is the Michelin-starred Datillo restaurant, where you can taste gourmet meals with the winery’s wines. It is an unforgettable experience: fine dining and wine tasting, a celebration of Calabrian cuisine and wine.
The winery’s location and quality make it a must-visit for those who want to taste the best of Calabria.
Calabrian Wines with Local Specialties
Pairing Calabrian wines with local specialties is a match made in heaven, and it will make you appreciate the bold and unique flavors of both wines and food. Calabrian cuisine uses a lot of red pepper, so the wines pair well with spicy dishes like Nduja, a spicy spreadable sausage that is a Calabrian staple. The full-bodied red wines based on Gaglioppo are perfect for matching the heat and richness of Nduja.
With its sharp and salty taste, Pecorino cheese pairs well with bold Calabrian red wines. The dark fruits, herbs, and spices of Gaglioppo wines play well with the intensity of Pecorino cheese and make a good wine taste even better. For seafood lovers, Calabrian white wines, like those made from Greco Bianco, are perfect for the region’s seafood dishes. These wines’ crisp acidity and delicate flavors make the freshness and flavors of grilled sardines and fish soup pop.
The delicate flavor of Greco Nero wine enhances the aroma of cod, whatever it’s cooked (steamed, tartare, mantecato, or fried). Magliocco wine pairs well with grilled blue fish like turbot, mackerel, or sardines in full-bodied or lighter versions. These pairings are a journey through Calabria’s cuisine and wines and will make every meal unforgettable.
Calabria’s Wine Areas
Calabria’s wine areas are as varied as they are beautiful and offer something for every wine lover. Each region has its own story, from the charming hilltop towns of the north to the seaside town of Tropea. Exploring these areas will give you a deeper understanding of Calabrian wines’ cultural and historical background and the opportunity to taste many wines from native grape varieties.
Hilltop Towns of the North
With their rich historical and cultural heritage, the northern hilltop towns of Calabria have an Albanian soul visible in the local dialect and traditions. Civita, for example, has medieval architecture and stone houses with breathtaking views of the Raganello Gorge. Visitors can taste Arbëreshë local cuisine in local restaurants and local wines in small family-owned wineries. The accommodations are often B&Bs and family-run inns and are very cozy and authentic.
Don’t miss:
Morano Calabro, with its old stone houses and Norman castle ruins
Malvito, with wineries like Tenute Pacelli
Altomonte and Farneto del Principe Winery
These towns will give you a taste of Calabria’s history and the opportunity to taste the region’s wines in a beautiful setting.
Tropea
Tropea, called the “Pearl of the Tyrrhenian Sea,” is famous for its cliffs, cliffside views, and sandy beaches. The historic center of Tropea has narrow streets and old buildings, each with its own story. This beautiful area with turquoise water and a sandy coast will be the perfect setting for your wine journey.
Walk through the historic center of the town and enjoy the views and sounds of this seaside gem. Nearby Marina di Zambrone will add more to your Tropea experience. Breathtaking landscapes and history make Tropea a must-visit for wine lovers.
The wineries offer tastings where you can taste local wines while enjoying the views of the Ionian Coast. Whether you’ll be sipping a Greco Bianco on a cliffside veranda or strolling through the narrow streets of the historic center, Tropea will be an unforgettable wine tourism experience.
How to Plan Your Calabria Visit
Planning is necessary to have a smooth and enjoyable experience in Calabria. Choose the best time to visit, coordinate the transportation, and book the winery tours and tastings. Reaching Calabria is easy with its two main airports and many travel options, but exploring the region by car is highly recommended to enjoy its beauty and flexibility.
Here, we will give you some practical tips to make the most of your wine tourism in Calabria.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit wineries in Calabria is between June and mid-October. The weather is warm and pleasant during these months, perfect for vineyard tours and outdoor wine tastings. Spring and autumn are the best, with mild weather and fewer tourists than in summer. So, it’s a more relaxed and intimate experience when visiting wineries and the region.
Summer in Calabria is crowded with Italian tourists, especially in July and August. While the atmosphere is lively and there are many festivals, it can also mean busier wineries and higher accommodation prices. So, if you want a more peaceful and enjoyable visit, consider planning your trip in the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn.
How to get there
Calabria has two main airports: Reggio Calabria Airport (REG) and Lamezia Terme Airport (SUF). With direct flights from many international destinations, getting to Calabria is easy. If you prefer to travel by train, long-distance trains connect Calabria to Italian cities like Milan, Rome, and Naples.
Driving is the most comfortable way to get around Calabria if you plan to visit several wineries. The main roads in Calabria for motorists are the A3 and the SS18, which are well-maintained and offer beautiful views of the region. Driving will give you the flexibility to stop wherever you want and fully enjoy the beauty of the Calabrian landscape. Better yet, reserve check out the Uber app if you do not have a designated driver for the day.
Booking
Booking winery tours and tastings in advance is recommended to have a personalized experience. Many wineries in Calabria are small and have limited capacity, so booking will ensure you get a spot. Websites like WineTourism.com offer direct booking for many wineries, so it’s easy and convenient.
Some wineries in Calabria prefer email booking for tours and tastings. For example to book a tour at Tenuta Terre Nobile winery you should book in advance by email and mention Cherrye. These booking tips will help you to have a smooth and enjoyable visit and you can focus on enjoying the wines and the views.
The Last Pour
Calabria is a wine tourism paradise with its wine heritage, indigenous grapes, and stunning landscapes. Each area has history, culture, and wine, from the historic Cirò DOC to the beautiful Tropea. Must-visit wineries like Librandi, Statti Estate, and Roberto Ceraudo will give you unforgettable tours and tastings, and pairing Calabrian wines with local food will be an extra pleasure. You can fully enjoy the Calabrian wine experience by planning and booking in advance. Cheers to this hidden gem, and let the wines of Calabria take you to a world where history and tradition are savored with every sip. Ready to discover the wines of Calabria? Book now!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key indigenous grapes of Calabria?
The key indigenous grapes of Calabria are Gaglioppo and Greco Bianco, essential for the region’s red and white wines.
When is the best time to visit Calabria for wine tourism?
The best time to visit Calabria for wine tourism is between June and mid-October. This period offers mild weather and fewer tourists, making it ideal for exploring the region’s wineries and vineyards.
How can I reach Calabria?
You can reach Calabria by flying into Reggio Calabria Airport (REG) or Lamezia Terme Airport (SUF), or by taking long-distance trains from major Italian cities. Consider planning your trip accordingly.
Do I need to book winery tours in advance?
Yes, booking winery tours in advance is advisable to secure your spot, especially as many wineries have limited visitor capacity.
What local delicacies pair well with Calabrian wines?
Local delicacies such as ‘Nduja, Pecorino cheese, and seafood pair well with Calabrian wines, enhancing the flavors of both the wines and the cuisine.
