Colline di Levanto

The Protected Designation of Origin "Colline di Levanto" includes four types of Ligurian wines: White, Vermentino, Red and Novello.

Grapes

"Colline di Levanto" white wine is made from grapes from vineyards with a presence of at least 40% Vermentino, combined with a 20% (minimum) of Albarola and 5% (minimum) of Bosco. For the remaining part, and up to a maximum of 35%, other white grapes may be used, provided they are suitable for cultivation in Liguria. The Colline di Levanto Vermentino, on the other hand, is made from at least 85% of grapes from the homonymous vine, together with a maximum of 15% of other similar berry varieties grown in Liguria. Finally, red and Novello are produced with a minimum of 30% Sangiovese and a minimum of 20% Ciliegiolo. For the remaining part, up to a ceiling of 50%, other red grapes may be used, with the characteristics already indicated.

Physicochemical and Organoleptic properties

The white wine (11% vol.) is straw yellow, with variable intensity depending on production. It releases a delicate, persistent and characteristic perfume, which combines with a dry, savoury and harmonious flavour. Vermentino (11.5% vol.) is also straw-coloured, with an intense fruity aroma and a harmonious, dry and delicately almond flavour. The red and red Novello variants (11% vol.) stand out for their ruby red colour, with different degrees of intensity. The basic version has a delicate and persistent bouquet, with a dry, delicate, harmonious and medium-bodied flavour. The Novello, on the other hand, is vinous, intense and fruity, with a savoury and harmonious taste.

Grape production area

The production area is located in eastern Liguria, in the province of La Spezia. An area of medium and low hills, in which the vineyards are located at moderate altitudes.

Specificity and historical notes

The viticulture of the area of “Levanto” experienced a strong development starting from the XI century, with the birth of the Municipalities. However, the real jump occurred in the second half of 1100 when the castle was built and “Levanto” became a safe commercial port for exports.