Italy is renowned for its impressive assortment of world-class wines, and those hailing from the southern region of Calabria, specifically the Val di Neto, are no exception. This captivating region is nestled between the Ionian and Tyrrhenian Sea, characterising the wines with a delightful touch of salinity.
Val di Neto, located close to the coastal town of Crotone, is a distinguished Calabrian DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata), the Italian accreditation for quality in wine. It has managed to foster a delightful symbiosis of tradition and modern vinification techniques, resulting in wines that are as captivating as the landscapes from which they emerge.
The region's flagship wine, Bianco di Ciro, boasts a rich and complex character resulting from the Gaglioppo grape and usually served chilled, complimenting the Mediterranean climate. Its dazzlingly pale gold hue is followed by pleasant aromas of Mediterranean herbs, citrus zest, and blossoming white flowers. On the palate, Val di Neto's whites deliver a playful balance between ripe, sun-kissed fruit and crisp, refreshing minerality. The indigenous Greco Bianco grape also thrives here, presenting a lighter, fruitier option for those warm Italian afternoons.
The region's top reds often feature the Gaglioppo grape variety too, yielding wines of great depth and complexity. These wines possess an elegant structure, laden with vibrant red fruits, a persistent mineral core, and gentle tannins that culminate in a beautifully balanced, refined finish.
The Calabrian wines of Val di Neto are a testament to Italy's winemaking prowess, offering a unique expression of the region's terroir, perfectly encapsulating the Mediterranean's sun, sea, and soul. These wines are undeniably worth seeking out, sure to add an exciting dimension to any wine aficionado's collection.
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