Colli Martani Wine Region

The well-respected sub-region of Colli Martani has a wide array of wines known worldwide for their distinction and high class. Colli Martani DOC is a sub-region of the prominent wine region of Umbria in central Italy. Colli Martani’s quintessential style is different from the rest due to its soil types, the selection of grape varieties, and the specific production methods of winemakers in the area. These elements lend to a style of wine found nowhere else in Italy or the world. The sub-region offers red, white, sparkling, and dessert wines produced from various blends of grapes and therefore has a natural diversity of taste that creates absolute heaven for wine lovers. These superb wines will fascinate you and leave you with a desire to want more and more. 

Explore the Best Wineries in Colli Martani!

Where is the Colli Martani wine appellation located?

Colli Martani is in Umbria, the region of central Italy, crossed by the River Tiber and bordering Tuscany, Marche, and Lazio regions. The appellation is situated south of Perugia, the region’s capital. Its vineyards sit on the foothills of the mountains from Bettona to Massa Martana, which run from northeast and southwest. Colli Martani DOC has two subzones, Cannara and Todi, from where Grechetto, the region’s famous and primary grape variety, emerges. The neighbouring wine appellations surrounding Colli Martani are Montefalco, Assisi, Amelia, Torgiano, Colli Perugini, Colli Altotiberini, Colli del Trasimeno and Orvieto. 

The history of the Colli Martani wine region

The history of the wine region dates back to Roman times. The Etruscans were the first people to occupy what is now central and northern Italy. Colli Martani has mainly evolved thanks to roads which the Etruscans built here, which is why it looks like a more modern place. Various amphora artefacts dating as early as the 7th century show that wine from the region was transported to France. The vineyards in Colli Martani have always been organized on a large scale, as there have been operated several huge producers, like Produttori del Barbaresco and Tenuta San Guido. Step by step, the Colli Martani sub-region has gained fame and developed enough to acquire appellation status and became an authorized DOC in 1988. 

The terroir of Colli Martani wine region

The region has a terroir that is highly influenced by its proximity to the Alps. Having various microclimates in different areas, overall, the climate in the Colli Martani sub-region is the Mediterranean with diurnal temperature variations, which aids the grape ripening process and creates favourable conditions for getting the ultimate taste from them. Also, the proximity to the Tiber river and Trasimeno Lake ensures the optimal water supply and proper nutrient supply to the soil, making it excellent for cultivating wine grapes. The soil type also varies in different zones due to the altitude, which ranges from 150 to 600 mm above sea level, but it consists of clay and limestone and is pretty fertile in all areas. These environmental conditions and the correct setting of the vineyards allow for achieving the right balance of ripeness, alcohol content and acidity in grapes and, therefore, in wine. 

Colli Martani wine characteristics

Colli Martani wines should consist of at least 50% of one main grape variety, but the pure variety wines consist of 85% of one grape type. The principal grape varieties for producing white wine are Trebbiano, Grechetto, Chardonnay, Riesling and Sauvignon blanc, whilst red wine grape varietals mainly are Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Spumante or sparkling wine can be a blend of at least 50% of Chardonnay, Grechetto or Pinot Noir and the sweet or dessert wine is a minimum of 85% of Vernaccia Nera and 15% of another blend. The minimum alcohol level in all wines is 11-12%; however, if adequately dried on or off the vine, the Vernaccia grapes can achieve a potential alcohol level of 17.0%, which is a must for this kind of wine. Red wines should be aged for at least one year and Riserva for two, including one year, of mandatory barrel ageing. Colli Martani Rosso or red wines are ruby red, but over ageing, their colour shifts to orange a little; Ageing in a barrel also stipulates spicy-earthy notes in red wine and flavours of wood and flowers. Whilst white wines are pale yellow to straw yellow and notable for their rich flavours of yellow peach, tart fruits, honey and caramel. 

Food to pair with Colli Martani wine

Pasta Alla Norcina

Pasta Alla Norcina is a traditional Italian dish originating in the town of Norcia, in Umbria. The dish is made from short pasta, such as penne or rigatoni, and fresh crumbled salsiccia - Norcian sausage, onions, white wine vine and cream. A generous amount of grated pecorino cheese and black truffles are added for more creaminess and enhanced flavour. Sometimes accompanied by a simple green salad on the side, this delightful pasta dish is excellent to savour with a glass of fine white wine, such as Colli Martani Grechetto. 

Trota in cartoccio

The trout in cartoccio is a delicious Italian trout dish, often served as the main course for dinner or lunch. This recipe might seem complicated to make, but it is pretty simple. The fish is seasoned with salt, pepper, garlic rosemary sprigs, oregano, parsley, lemon slices, and a drizzle of olive oil, then wrapped in parchment paper and baked in the oven. The result is moist and tender fish that has been cooked without any added fat. This flavourful fish is usually accompanied by grilled veggies like courgette, carrots, bell peppers and onions and pairs exceptionally well with Colli Martani white wine. 

Fettuccine con la ricotta

Fettuccine con la ricotta is a traditional dish from the Italian region of Umbria. The name fettuccine con la ricotta means “little ribbons with ricotta”. The dish is made using fettuccine pasta, cut into strips and cooked in boiling water. The pasta is mixed with butter, salt, and pepper. After the pasta has been drained and cooled, it is tossed with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh ricotta mixed with heavy cream. This creamy delicacy, topped with fresh parsley and a dash of olive oil, is excellent to pair with a glass of wine, such as Colli Martani Sangiovese. 

Places to visit in the Colli Martani wine region

Castel Ritaldi

Castel Ritaldi is a small, rocked village, in medieval style, sitting on the Scigliano hill at the foothill of the Martani mountains. It’s situated on the route from Spoleto to Montefalco, and it dominates a primarily agricultural zone, with woods and sloping hills covered in olive groves and vineyards. Its tiny backstreets can be walked or biked through. This impressive village with a castle has a particular historical meaning and a lot to discover in the place. Also, it offers stunning views and beautiful architecture that creates a sense of authenticity and a feeling of regional culture.

Ceramics Museum of Deruta 

The Deruta Ceramics Regional Museum is located in the historic centre of the town of Deruta and is the oldest ceramics museum in Italy; The museum’s collection includes more than 6000 pieces of ceramic art from the 16th century to the present day. The museum was founded in 1898 and is housed in a restored convent of San Francesco, built in the 14th century. The museum’s mission is not only to exhibit the existing conservation of artwork, but also to give inspiration to emerging, contemporary artists. 

Olive and Oil Museum

Museo dell Olivo e dell olio, or Olive and Oil Museum of Torgiano, is a museum dedicated to the history and knowledge of olive oil culture in Italy. It is located on the premises of an ancient oil mill in Torgiano, a small village situated on Umbria’s hills in the heart of Italy. The museum features a wide range of exhibits, including videos, models, and interactions, providing the comprehensive scientific information and methodology local people have been using from ancient times till now for the production of oil and olives. The museum is interesting as it represents an essential part of Italian culture and tradition. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Colli Martani wine region