Emilia Romagna wines: a tasting through the hills
Emilia-Romagna, located in the heart of northern Italy, is a region renowned for its exceptional wine and gastronomic tradition. In this land of ancient wine roots, the millenary history of viticulture is intertwined with the passion for good food, creating a unique panorama.
In the provinces of Modena and Reggio Emilia, there are the Terre del Lambrusco DOP, the beating heart of Lambrusco, a sparkling red wine that has conquered the palate of many people around the world. Lambrusco stands out for its fruity or purple scent and its pink foam. This wine is characterized by seven different varieties, each with unique flavor nuances, characteristics capable of making it an ideal companion for a wide variety of dishes, from traditional Emilian cuisine to international dishes.
Moving along the coast between Ferrara and Ravenna, we discover the Bosco Eliceo DOP, also known as “Vini delle Sabbie”. This region is characterized by sandy soils and a humid climate, ideal for the cultivation of vines such as Fortana, Merlot, Sauvignon and Bianco. The red Bosco Eliceo DOP Fortana and Merlot offer full-bodied and enveloping flavors, while the white Sauvignon and White are fresh and aromatic, perfect to accompany fish dishes.
The hills of Bologna host the wines of the Colli Bolognesi, a land that boasts three reds (Barbera, Merlot and Sauvignon) and four whites (Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Blanc, Riesling Italico and Chardonnay). But the ace in the hole of this region is the famous Pignoletto, a sparkling wine ideal as an aperitif and also available in still, sparkling and superior versions. The diversity of these wines reflects the variety of Bologna’s hilly terrain and offers a range of options for every palate.
The provinces of Parma and Piacenza have a rich wine tradition rooted in the Napoleonic era. Here, four vines dominate the scene: Malvasia di Candia aromatica, Sauvignon Blanc, Barbera and Bonarda. These vines are the basis for wines such as Gutturnio DOP, Colli Piacentini DOP Malvasia and Ortrugo-Colli Piacentini DOP, each with its own distinctive character. The history and mastery of the wine producers of Parma and Piacenza are reflected in these high quality wines, which represent the essence of the wine tradition of Emilia-Romagna.
In the heart of Romagna, Albana and Sangiovese grapes dominate wine production. The production area of Romagna PDO wines is the largest in the region and offers distinct wines such as Albana, with a dry and full-bodied taste, and Romagna Sangiovese DOP, available in several versions, including Novello, Superiore and Riserva. These wines represent the centuries-old wine tradition of Romagna and are loved both locally and internationally, confirming Romagna as one of the main Italian wine destinations.
The history of viticulture in Emilia-Romagna dates back to pre-Roman times and is intrinsically linked to its most famous grape, Lambrusco. Pliny the Elder already mentions Lambrusco in his Naturalis Historia, emphasizing its medical properties and unique characteristics.
Viticulture in this region has deep roots, with archaeological discoveries dating back to the seventh century BC, when the inhabitants of these lands dedicated themselves to the cultivation of vines.
Emilia-Romagna, with its exceptional cuisine and extraordinary wines, offers an unparalleled dining experience. At the Executive Spa Hotel, you can complete this experience with a luxury stay in the picturesque hills of the region, where comfort and good food come together to offer you a unique and unforgettable experience.