Colli di Parma Wine Region Guide

Colli di Parma wine region, located in Emilia-Romagna, is a DOC wine district in northern Italy. Created in October 1982, it covers a wide portfolio of red and white wines as well as spumante, frizzate and semi-sparkling for which Emilio Colli di Parma created his namesake. Colli di Parma is a region in Italy that produces excellent wines! As you travel through the Colli di Parma wine appellation, take a look at these wines perfect for your dinner.

Check out the best wine tastings and tours in Colli di Parma Wine Region!

History of Colli di Parma Wine

Colli di Parma is 200 and 800 metres above the sea level which is dedicated to wine cultivation for centuries. The Napoleonic era brought cultivation of different types of vineyards to this area, where their unique soil proved most reliable. Grafting vineyards from Napoleonic times is still a popular practice in this area. The addition of grape varieties to the wine-producing industry was made in 1982. These new grafts have been successful in fully adapting to their new environment and are now able to maintain the specific properties of their homeland. A Consorzio Volontario has been monitoring production of PDO Colli di Parma wines since 1977 and have helped to raise the quality of their products over many decades worth of experience.

Terrior of Colli di Parma

Colli di Parma is a year-round rainfall region with summer temperatures that can reach as high as 30°C. Winters are cold and it is not uncommon to see vineyards covered in snow. The soil is red and rich with gravel that has been fossilized by the clayey dark-grey fossils. It's an uneven substrate with a clay-like consistency. The presence of the river in the area influences the quality of wine produced there. This is not ideal. But, as always, the man in the vineyards and in the cellars is able to regulate the soil and climatic conditions to get great results - even when they don't work out.

Colli di Parma Wine Characteristics 

There are the principal and widely planted grape varieties in the region of Colli di Parma- White Grape Varieties: Chardonnay, Malvasia, Pinot Bianco, Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc. Red Grape Varieties: Barbera, Bonarda, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Lambrusco, Merlot, Pinot Nero. They are then used in wines in blends or as a single variety. Colli di Parma is red and white wines, including the sparkling spumante and the lighter, semi-sparkling frizzante. In the wines of Colli di Parma, you can taste red fruits and different types of citrus fruits. They are also balanced, which gives them a great mouth feel. The Colli di Parma wines go well with many dishes such as pork, fish and hard cheese. They always seem to pair very well together.

Food to pair with Colli di Parma Wine

Trippa alla Parmigiana

Trippa alla Parmigiana is a traditional Italian dish made with veal tripe, butter, and cheese. It originates from Emilia-Romagna, The tripe is soaked and boiled, then drained and cut into thin strips. After it cools, it's heated in butter. You've likely heard that cooking offal is a difficult endeavor, but with this recipe, you'll be able to make an offal dish easily. Start by adding grated cheese, eggs, and herbs to the pan. Let it melt in the pan for a little bit before serving. If you want to add tomatoes or hot peppers for more flavor variation, feel free. It is recommended to pair with Colli di Parma wines.

Piadina Romagnola

Today, this griddled Italian flatbread is typically enjoyed as a sandwich, one of the most popular fillings includes prosciutto, creamy soft cheeses like squacquerone, tomatoes, and a handful of peppery wild arugula. Piadina Romagnola is so tasty sandwich and pairs well with Colli di Parma wines.

Balanzoni

Balanzoni is a traditional Italian pasta dish. You can get green tortellini-like pasta that's stuffed with ricotta, spinach, eggs and Parmigiano Reggiano and chop meat like pork loin. Italian pasta, known for its delicate texture, is cooked with sage and butter. It's named after Dr. Balanzone, a carnival mascot from Bologna who had the hat that made it look like spaghetti. It goes well with Colli di Parma wines.

Tigella

Tigella is an Italian bread that is crispy on the outside and has a soft texture with mild flavors. It's made from certain clay molds and usually has cheese spread throughout. From the time tigella was first invented, there have been various theories about its origin. It is believed that it was created by poor people from the Apennine Mountains near Modena. Tigella pairs friendly with Colli di Parma wines.

Places to visit near Colli di Parma

Cattedrale di Parma

Parma Cathedral is a Roman Catholic cathedral in Parma, Emilia-Romagna, dedicated to the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is the episcopal seat of the Diocese of Parma.

Palazzo della Pilotta

It was originally built in the 15th century and is one of the oldest authorities in Parma's historical center. Its name derives from the game of pelota played at one time by Spanish soldiers.

Baptistery of Parma

The building is one of the most important Medieval 13th-century Gothic-style churches in Italy. It is considered to be among the most beautiful examples of a Medieval cathedral worldwide and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Museo Lombardi

Museo Lombardi is a 19th century art museum in central Parma. Housed within the Palazzo di Riserva, its eclectic collection portrays the state of cultural production of that time.

Frequently asked questions about Colli di Parma Wine Region