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Southern Italy | Calabria’s Wine Revolution
Locally known as Italy’s toe, Calabria is one of the most ancient and wild regions. With half of its land covered in the mountains, most of its life revolves around its warmer coastal zones and hilly agricultural areas. Citrus orchards and nut trees do well in Mediterranean weather and hilly lands. Calabria is experiencing a Wine Revolution that’s taking off.
Calabria: Ancient Vineyards
Ancient vineyards sit alongside the orchards, which provide intense and intriguing grapes. Unfortunately, as Calabria remains Italy’s most non-industrialized area, its wine industry has also suffered from underdevelopment. However, that started to change recently when a group of passionate winemakers began Calabria’s wine revolution.
For thousands of years, two major areas have produced wine in Calabria. One in the west, situated north and south of Cosenza, and the other on the Ionian coast north of Crotone. However, for much of the 20th century, bulk wine was favored over quality production.
Calabrian wine once served to Olympians, became forgettable. With little choice, farmers have been forced to grow wines to elevated alcohol levels and sell them to cooperatives. In turn, they would resell the wine to northern wineries to help increase color and alcohol.
In 2010, this began to change. The Cirò Revolution was born, and a path back to quality was forged. Winemakers knew their vineyards overlooking the Ionian coast grew some of the best grapes in the world. Subsequently, they set out to prove this to everyone else.
For the past ten years, the Cirò denomination has helped like-minded winemakers return to their roots, make delicious wine, and respect the land. Specifically in Cirò and most of Calabria, that means making great Gaglioppo, the number one grape of the region.
With countless interesting wines to try, visiting Italy is a must. Explore more of Italy’s winemaking past on a Southern Italy Yacht Charter.
Red Wines of Calabria
Gaglioppo is a deep violet grape with intensity and good acidity. As a late-ripening grape, it develops flavors and tannins without compromising acidity. Like Aglianico, many compare Gaglioppo to Nebbiolo from Piedmont. In Ciro, winemakers make bold single-varietal wines and those with a minimum of 95% Gaglioppo.
Nearby, in the Melissa area, the vineyards are at a higher elevation, producing Gaglioppo wines lighter in body and more floral. Additionally, both areas also produce great roses of Gaglioppo. The top producers and revolution starters include A’Vita, Cote di Franze, and Sergio Arcuri.
Magliocco, another ancient robust red similar to Gaglioppo, has slowly been remerging in Calabria with excellent results. Slightly more subtle, it’s full of black cherry notes and spice. Look for great Magliocco from Cantina Scala.
In addition, other non-Calabrian grapes, like Nerello Mascalese, Nerello Cappuccio, Aglianico, and Cabernet Sauvignon, can be found primarily on blends throughout Calabria.
White Wines of Calabria
A white grape also benefitting from the Ciro Revolution is Grecco Bianco. Producers make full-bodied white wines from at least 80% Greco Bianco in the Ciro region. Here, they are very mineral with stone fruit characters like yellow plums.
Mantonico Bianco is another grape also experiencing a revival in Calabria. Honey and peach flavors dominate these white wines, which can also be produced in the macerated style. Masseria Perugini makes excellent examples of Mantonico and other native grapes like Magliocco.
Malvasia Bianca is also gaining momentum in the western winemaking areas near Cosenza. Moreover, these wines are full-bodied, aromatic, and great with food. Today producers like L’acino make truly unique and flavorful wines from Malvasia.
Remember, you can explore more of Italy’s winemaking past on a Southern Italy Yacht Charter.
Experience Calabria’s Wine Revolution
A yacht charter in Calabria takes you to the stunning southern region of Italy. Calabria, nestled between the sparkling Ionian and Tyrrhenian Seas, offers an unforgettable yachting experience that combines rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine.
Embark on your adventure from one of the region’s bustling ports, such as Tropea, Reggio Calabria, or Crotone. As you set sail, take in the rugged beauty of Calabria’s coastline, adorned with ancient cliffside villages and lush greenery.
The highlight of your yacht charter will undoubtedly be discovering secluded beaches and hidden coves that can only be reached by boat. Drop anchor and dive into the crystal-clear waters, or bask in the sun on the yacht’s deck while relishing the unparalleled views of the Calabrian landscape.
As you venture inland, you’ll encounter Calabria’s fascinating history and culture. Explore ancient ruins, medieval castles, and charming towns that have stood the test of time. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in authentic Italian cuisine at local trattorias. Savor traditional dishes like “nduja” (spicy Calabrian salami), “caciocavallo” cheese, and “fileja” pasta.
Calabria also offers plenty of opportunities for water sports, snorkeling, and hiking along scenic trails that wind through the region’s rugged mountains. Wildlife enthusiasts can watch for this unspoiled paradise’s unique flora and fauna.
A yacht charter in Calabria is an escape. You can immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of this hidden gem of Italy. Calabria has everything if you’re seeking relaxation, exploration, or a taste of the dolce vita.
Boats for Your Southern Italy Yacht Charter
There are many yachts for your southern Italy yacht charter. Here are a few:
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Angra Too
€132,000 – €162,000 Per week W. Med -Naples/Sicily + 1 others -
YCM 120
$98,000 – $105,000 Per week Caribbean Virgin Islands (BVI) + 4 others -
Together
€110,000 – €140,000 Per week W. Med -Naples/Sicily + 1 others -
Unique S
€120,000 – €160,000 Per week W. Med -Naples/Sicily + 1 others -
ANYTHING GOES V
€115,000 – €130,000 Per week W. Med -Naples/Sicily + 1 others
