Calabria

Calabria on the Italian "Toe" is separated from Sicilia by the Strait of Messina. The Capital is Catanzaro.

Climate

Calabria is characterized by mountainous terrain, hills, and a long coastline along the Ionian and Tyrrhenian Seas. The region has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.

Calabria is not well known in the wine world. The region has no DOCGs, but 9 DOCs. In 2022, Calabria produced just 3 million cases of wine, and the production has been falling for the last decade.

Grapes and Wines

Calabria is home to a range of indigenous grape varieties. Some of them are unique to the region. The wines from Calabria are often characterized by richness, warmth, and a rustic charm.

Ca 75% of Calabria's wines are red. Notable grapes include Gaglioppo, Magliocco, and Nerello Cappuccio.

White varieties include Greco Bianco, Mantonico, and Pecorello.

Gaglioppo

Gaglioppo (the Barolo of the South) is a red grape variety that is widely grown in Calabria, particularly in the Ciro DOC area.

Wines made from Gaglioppo are robust, with flavors of dark fruits and spices, and a strong tannin stucture.

Within the Ciro DOC, the Cirò Rosso Classico designation is reserved for red wines produced in the traditional style, predominantly from Gaglioppo grapes.

Greco di Bianco DOC

Calabria also produces some white wines, with the Greco di Bianco DOC being one of the most prominent.

Wines from this area are typically made from the Greco Bianco grape and are known for their aromatic profile and crisp acidity.

Denominations

• Bivongi DOC
• Cirò Classico DOCG (proposed)
• Cirò DOC
• Greco di Bianco DOC
• Lamezia DOC
• Melissa DOC
• S. Anna di Isola Capo Rizzuto DOC
• Savuto DOC
• Scavigna DOC
• Terre di Cosenza DOC

Food Pairing

Calabria's wines pair well with the region's bold and flavorful cuisine. Local dishes include spicy 'Nduja sausage, Calabrese salami, pasta with sardines, and grilled meats.

The robust red wines from Calabria often complement the richness of the local food.