Chieti Wine Region Guide

The wine region of Chieti, named after its largest city, is part of the Italian region of Abruzzo. The Adriatic Sea borders it to the northeast. The province of Chieti produces roughly 75% of Abruzzo wines and is Italy's fifth largest wine-producing region. It has been producing wine since the 16th century and is regarded as one of Italy's best. Chieti is one of Italy's oldest wine-growing regions, famous for its artisanal wineries and historical architecture. The region has an abundance of unique geographical features, such as a high volcanic plateau, numerous rivers, lakes, and thermal springs, and a wide variety of natural environments that all produce some of the most sought-after wines in Italy.

Check out wine tastings and tours in Chieti Wine Region!

Where is the Chieti Region located?

The Chieti wine region is located in southern Abruzzo, Italy. It is situated at the foot of the Pescara Monti National Park and is bounded to the east by Molise and to the west by Lazio.

History of the Chieti region

The wine region of Chieti has a long history. It was founded over 2,500 years ago by the Etruscans and became famous when the Romans discovered it during their conquest. It has made wine since the Roman Empire and is well-known for its white wines. It is still known for producing some of Italy's best wines. The Chieti DOCG is one of Italy's oldest DOCs, dating back to 1887.

Terroir of Chieti Region

The Terroir of the Chieti wine region is created by nature. The soil has been shaped by volcanic eruptions, which gave rise to the fertile vineyards of the region. The terroir ranges from marly-clay, sand-rich flysch, limestone soils, and alluvium deposits. The Terroir of this area blends both Italian and Mediterranean terroirs, with Mediterranean species dominating, and Italian varietals such as Sangiovese and Montepulciano d'Abruzzo.

Grape Varieties in Chieti Region

It’s home to the most important grape variety in Italy, Pecorino. Other popular grapes include Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio, as well as smaller amounts of Moscato, primarily used in sparkling wines from the region. Sangiovese, Merlot, and Montepulciano are the primary red wine varieties, producing medium-bodied wines with an intense ruby colour and abundant red fruit flavours. Chieti produces high-quality wines with a strong character and history. The region has produced wines from grapes from various locations throughout its territory and offers some genuinely classic European products. 

Food to pair with Chieti

Chieti has a rich culinary heritage, with each dish representing a small town or village. The region is best known for its wines and food. 

Brodetto alla vastese

It is a traditional Vasto-based Italian dish.  Onions, olive oil, green bell peppers, parsley, garlic, tomatoes, and water are used to make this fish soup. It's mixed with fresh seafood like cod, shrimp, sole, calamari, mussels, and various white fish and served with bread to mop up the sauce.

Spaghetti al cartoccio

It's an Italian dish typical of Chieti and is prepared using a unique method known as al cartoccio. It's made with clams, squid, shrimp, and prawns. The best wine for this dish is Trebbiano di Abruzzo. It's cooked with garlic and seafood, with the remaining ingredients added after that liquid has evaporated. The pasta is tossed with the sauce and covered before being heated in a pan or oven.

Places to visit near Chieti

Francavilla al Mare

It is a comune and town in the Italian province of Chieti, in the Abruzzo region. Chieti is only a half-hour drive away. Francavilla al Mare has many attractions, including the Michetti Museum, the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore, the medieval tower and Roman ruins, and spring water making it an ideal destination for travelling.

Chieti city

Chieti is one of the oldest cities in Italy and was founded by Achilles. Though Chieti is Italy's oldest city, it has unfortunately lost much of its history through wars and destruction. But you could see the Villa Communale, Art Museum Costantino Barbella, and the old town's Roman ruins.

Palena

The town of Palena is situated in the Province of Chieti, Italy. Its main attraction is the famous Majella National Park and a bear sanctuary. The Area Faunistica dell'Orso Bruno allows its visitors to see the brown bears in their natural habitat but at a safe distance. Palena has a beautiful center with many old buildings, including the Castello Ducale di Palena which houses a paleontology museum (Museo Geopaleontologico dell'Alto Aventino).

Frequently asked questions About Chieti