Dolceacqua

• Rossese (red): Light-bodied with pale ruby hues, this wine showcases fragrant aromas of wild red berries, plum, or black cherry, and dried herbs. It offers light tannins, bright acidity, and a silky texture, similar to Pinot Noir, with some exhibiting subtle Mediterranean herbal spices.
• Rossese di Dolceacqua (Rosso): The standard dry red wine, usually unoaked or lightly oaked to enhance its pure fruit flavors.
• Rossese di Dolceacqua Superiore: This style is richer and fuller-bodied, with higher alcohol content and longer aging. It adds complexity with additional herbal-spice notes.

Rossese di Dolceacqua wines capture the essence of Liguria, offering fresh, red-fruited reds with lively acidity, finesse, and a hint of maritime influence, reflecting the unique climate of its rugged, sun-drenched vineyards.

The terroir of Dolceacqua is defined by its distinctive marine sedimentary soils, comprising turbiditic sandstones and marls. These shallow, rocky soils naturally limit vine yields and contribute to the vibrant acidity found in Rossese wines. Sandstone soils are more acidic, while marl-rich areas are alkaline, providing a nuanced mineral profile.

The vineyards are perched on steep, south-facing terraces between 200 and 500 meters, benefiting from abundant sunlight and cooling sea breezes from the Ligurian Sea. The warm-temperate, Mediterranean climate features warm days and cool nights, with moderate rainfall in autumn and winter. Summers are dry, occasionally necessitating emergency irrigation to maintain vine health.

This unique combination of elevation, rocky soils, and maritime influence shapes the aromatic lift and balanced structure of Rossese wines, capturing the essence of Liguria's rugged landscape.

The charming region of Dolceacqua in western Liguria hosts several exceptional wineries, each adding a unique note to the area's storied winemaking tradition. Here are a few must-visit spots:

• Maccario Dringenberg (Dolceacqua): This top estate, run by Giovanna Maccario and Goetz Dringenberg, specializes in pure Rossese, with acclaimed single-vineyard wines such as Posaù, Luvaira, Curli, and Settecamini.
• Cantina Sociale di Dolceacqua: A local cooperative offering classic Rossese DOC wines from various hillside plots, perfect for those new to the region's offerings.
• Terre Bianche (Apricale): A family-run winery renowned for its Rossese wines, including old-vine and single-vineyard selections.
• Azienda Agricola Foresti (Camporosso): This boutique estate blends traditional and modern techniques to create expressive, fruit-driven Rossese wines.
• La Vigna dell’Acqua (Apricale): An agriturismo offering vineyard tours, tastings of Rossese, and local dishes.

In the rugged landscapes of Rossese di Dolceacqua, sustainability is more than a choice—it's a necessity. The steep, terraced vineyards demand manual labor, with bush vines trained in the Alberello style to prevent erosion. Many vineyards embrace organic or minimal-intervention practices, using cover crops to stabilize soil and boost biodiversity. Some farmers mow and hand weed instead of using herbicides, highlighting a commitment to eco-friendly methods.

Water management is crucial here. The DOC permits irrigation only in emergencies, leading many to rely on dry farming. Some vineyards collect rainwater or use drip irrigation sparingly.

To ensure quality, DOC regulations limit yields. In the winery, sustainable approaches include solar energy, heat recovery, and using lighter or recycled packaging. This blend of tradition and innovation ensures Rossese di Dolceacqua wines capture the essence of their unique terroir while respecting the environment.

In the heart of Liguria, wine tourism in Dolceacqua offers a blend of history, culture, and picturesque vineyard landscapes. Visitors can explore medieval Dolceacqua Village, with its iconic Doria Castle and Monet-famous stone bridge.

The region's small estates provide intimate vineyard tours and tastings, showcasing the distinctive Rossese wines known for their vibrant acidity and subtle herbal notes.

Outdoor enthusiasts can traverse scenic trails connecting charming villages like Apricale and Pigna, offering breathtaking views of terraced vineyards.

The local community frequently hosts festivals and events celebrating the region's wine heritage, including seasonal tastings and harvest festivals. These experiences invite wine lovers to immerse themselves in the unique terroir and sustainable practices of Dolceacqua, where tradition meets innovation in wine production. This wine destination embodies the essence of Ligurian culture, offering a rich tapestry of flavors and history for those who appreciate the art of winemaking.