Calabria

• Gaglioppo: The leading native red grape, known for structured, tannic wines with vibrant acidity, red cherry and spice flavors, and a light, Nebbiolo-like hue; forms the backbone of Cirò Rosso.
• Greco Bianco: Produces both crisp, refreshing whites (Cirò Bianco) and luscious sweet passito wines with floral and stone fruit notes, especially in the Greco di Bianco DOC.
• Magliocco Canino: Central to Terre di Cosenza DOC, offering complex, sophisticated reds with dark fruit and herbal undertones.
• Mantonico Bianco: An aromatic white variety yielding both dry and sweet wines with layers of citrus, white flowers, and subtle minerality.
• Nerello Mascalese & Nerello Cappuccio: Indigenous reds shared with Sicily, contributing savory, mineral-driven wines with red berry and earthy nuances.
• Calabria IGT Wines: Innovative expressions, often single-varietal Gaglioppo, crafted outside strict DOC rules to highlight purity and terroir—a hallmark of the Cirò Revolution.

Calabria's vineyards benefit from a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, ideal for viticulture. The region's unique position between the Ionian and Tyrrhenian seas, coupled with the influence of the Apennine mountains, creates a diverse range of microclimates. These conditions are perfect for nurturing native grape varieties like Gaglioppo and Greco Bianco, contributing to the region's ongoing wine renaissance. The diverse soils of Calabria, primarily calcareous with rich clay content, are interspersed with sandy and alluvial patches. This geological variety imbues Calabria's wines with distinct flavors and complexity, reflecting the land's character. Sea breezes and higher altitudes further enhance the freshness and balance of the wines, fostering a terroir-driven expression celebrated in both traditional and innovative styles.

Calabria's wine renaissance is marked by a blend of historic estates and innovative newcomers, each contributing unique expressions of the region's indigenous grape varieties.

• Librandi: A cornerstone of Cirò Marina since 1950, renowned for championing Gaglioppo and exploring native varieties.
• Ippolito 1845: The oldest winery in the region, emphasizing biodynamic practices and rooted in tradition.
• 'A Vita: Part of the Cirò Revolution, known for organic, minimal-intervention wines that reflect the terroir.
• Sergio Arcuri: Celebrated for using old alberello vines and traditional fermentation methods in palmenti.
• Tenuta del Conte: An organic winery dedicated to showcasing the authentic flavors of Gaglioppo.
• Ceraudo: A pioneer in organic farming, leading the charge since 1987 from Strongoli Marina.
• Statti: A historic estate in Lamezia Terme, blending tradition with sustainable practices and renewable energy.
• Odoardi: Highlights the diversity of the western coast, focusing on Savuto and Scavigna DOCs.

Calabria's winemaking resurgence is deeply intertwined with sustainable practices that respect both the environment and the region's rich history. This approach is not about following modern trends but reviving age-old, pre-industrial farming techniques. By embracing organic and biodynamic methods, Calabria's winemakers focus on maintaining soil health and enhancing biodiversity. Practices such as cover cropping and the use of green manure are common, helping to skip chemicals and foster a more natural vineyard ecosystem. The commitment to sustainability also extends to preserving Calabria's unique viticultural identity. By prioritizing native grape varieties like Gaglioppo, winemakers are not just producing exceptional wines; they are safeguarding genetic heritage that has developed over thousands of years. This dedication to native varieties and traditional methods ensures that Calabria's wines reflect the land's character, contributing to the broader goal of agricultural sustainability and reinforcing the region's ongoing wine renaissance.

Calabria's wine tourism offers a rich tapestry of experiences, where the region's historic vineyards and diverse landscapes come together to present a unique taste of Italy's winemaking heritage. Visitors can explore the official Strade del Vino, which guide them through key wine zones such as the Ionian Coast Route, home to the famous Cirò and Melissa DOCs, and the Mountain and Tyrrhenian Route, featuring the Terre di Cosenza and Savuto DOCs. The southern Costa Viola route showcases "heroic viticulture," with vineyards dramatically set on steep terraces overlooking the sea, emphasizing the region's dedication to traditional and challenging vineyard practices. Calabria's vibrant culinary scene complements its wine offerings, with rustic dishes pairing beautifully with local varietals. The bold flavors of Gaglioppo wines enhance spicy and hearty dishes like 'Nduja and Morzello, while Greco Bianco's refreshing acidity is a perfect match for fresh seafood. Festivals and events, such as the Merano WineFestival's inaugural event in Cirò set for June 2025, highlight the region's growing pride and international appeal. These events, along with numerous winery tours, tastings, and cooking classes, provide opportunities to delve deeper into Calabria's wine culture, celebrating both its historical roots and modern innovations.