Orvieto

• Grechetto: Adds structure and depth with flavors of ripe pear, almond, and herbs; key in Orvieto blends.
• Trebbiano Toscano (Procanico): Offers freshness and a light-to-medium body with subtle floral notes, enhancing acidity and liveliness.
• Verdello: Contributes additional aromatics and texture to blends.
• Drupeggio (Canaiolo Bianco): Enhances the aromatic profile, adding complexity to the wines.
• Malvasia Bianca: Provides rich aromatics and texture, complementing other varieties.
• Orvieto DOC Styles: Focused on dry, aromatic, and refreshing white wines with stone-fruit and citrus flavors; the traditional off-dry 'Abboccato' style is a cherished specialty.

The temperate climate of Orvieto features short, mild winters and long, sunlit summers, perfect for growing vibrant white wines. Hillside breezes help grapes ripen slowly and evenly, while moderate rainfall keeps vines healthy without too much humidity.

The region's volcanic tuff mixed with limestone and clay soils are rich in minerals and dotted with marine fossils, adding to the concentration and balance of Orvieto wines. These well-drained soils, found on gentle slopes at 300–400 meters, provide ideal sunlight and drainage.

The historic Orvieto Classico area, surrounding the medieval town and extending to Lake Corbara, is a prime winemaking location. Its unique terroir and innovative vineyard practices enhance the lively, crisp profiles of local wines, especially those from native grapes like Grechetto and Trebbiano Toscano.

Orvieto, a picturesque town in Umbria, is renowned for its exquisite white wines, crafted with a blend of tradition and innovation. Two notable wineries stand out in this historic region:

• Marchesi Antinori (Castello della Sala): Located just a short distance from Orvieto, this estate belongs to the esteemed Antinori family. They are celebrated for their Orvieto Classico Superiore, particularly the “San Giovanni della Sala” label, which uses indigenous grape varieties to produce exceptional quality wine.
• Ruffino: Known primarily for their Tuscan reds, Ruffino also excels in creating delightful Orvieto Classico whites. These wines capture the freshness and character unique to the region’s terroir.

Both wineries exemplify the harmony between Orvieto’s rich winemaking heritage and modern techniques, producing wines that are beloved for their crispness and depth.

Orvieto, with its enchanting landscapes and historic vineyards, champions sustainability through a blend of tradition and innovation. Many winemakers in this Umbria region enhance wine quality by reducing yields and adopting organic methods. They prioritize soil health with cover crops and minimize chemical use, fostering a thriving vineyard ecosystem.

Embracing green practices, numerous vineyards opt for organic and biodynamic farming, employing compost and native yeasts over synthetic materials. Solar power and water recycling are common, and lightweight or recycled glass bottles are often used. The Consorzio Orvieto DOC plays a pivotal role, promoting eco-friendly practices and conserving the region’s rich biodiversity. This dedication to sustainability helps preserve Orvieto's unique terroir, ensuring that its celebrated wines continue to reflect the vibrant spirit of the land.

Orvieto, a gem in Italy's Umbria region, offers a unique wine tourism experience. Visitors can explore underground wine caves, carved from volcanic tufa, providing an atmospheric backdrop for tasting Orvieto Classico wines.

The city's rich history, from its iconic Duomo to its ancient tunnels, enhances the wine journey, with events such as open-cellar days and festivals adding cultural depth, especially in warmer months. The surrounding countryside invites exploration of agriturismi, where local dishes like truffles and porcini mushrooms are paired with regional wines.

Scenic routes link vineyards, offering cycling or driving adventures, and some estates provide accommodations. This blend of history, culture, and gastronomy, coupled with a commitment to sustainability, creates an immersive experience that reflects Orvieto's dedication to both tradition and innovation in winemaking.