Golfo del Tigullio, situated along the picturesque Ligurian coast, invites wine enthusiasts to discover its unique terroir and rich viticultural heritage. This charming locale is home to indigenous grape varieties like Vermentino and Rossese, producing exquisite white and red wines that reflect the stunning coastal landscapes. Explore the vineyards that dot the hillsides of Santa Margherita Ligure, Portofino, and Chiavari, and immerse yourself in the local culture through winery visits and personalized tasting experiences that showcase the region’s distinct flavors.
If you are looking for extraordinary wines, then the region of Golfo del Tigullio is the perfect place to explore. Boasting a wide variety of wines that have gained international acclaim for their excellence, your journey through Liguria will be even more memorable if you sample some of these exquisite wines.
The distinctive character of Golfo del Tigullio is attributed to a variety of components, from its grape varieties and climate, to the hard work and dedication invested by winemakers. This leads to a type of fruity wines that can't be found in any other region in Italy, or even beyond the country's borders.
DOC Golfo del Tigullio-Portofino wine producers present their customers with a Quality Wine that stands out from the competition for its superior taste and story. They are proud to share this wonderful experience with the world. The origins and processing of a wine are key elements in defining the characteristics to make it distinguishable in a certain region. For those who admire or enjoy wine, getting a chance to visit wineries operating within the denomination can help them further appreciate and understand what makes it unique.
We hope you will experience the superb wines that make Golfo del Tigullio a favourite for wine drinkers worldwide. Browse our site to discover what Wineries in Golfo del Tigullio have to offer and plan your wine adventure today. Find out more about Wine Tasting and Tours in Golfo del Tigullio.
Golfo del Tigullio Portofino DOC is a wine sub-region from the Ligurian coast, located in the northwestern area of Italy.
The Ligurian low hills to the east of the region are perfect for producing a DOC wine like Golfo del Tigullio-Portofino. Thanks to their adequately ventilated, bright and favorable terraced slopes, they provide the right environment for all stages of vineyard growth and development. The wine produced in the mountains is distinct from its coastal counterpart owing to its cooler temperature and the distinct organoleptic characteristics it has. This position, combined with the cooler climate upstream, establishes a unique flavor for wines. DOC Golfo del Tigullio-Portofino's Production Area is based in the regions:
Province of Genoa and includes the territory of the municipalities of Avegno, Bargagli, Bogliasco, Borzonasca, Camogli, Carasco, Casarza Ligure, Castiglione Chiavarese, Chiavari, Cicagna, Cogorno, Coreglia Ligure, Davagna, Favale di Malvaro, Lavagna, Leivi, Lumarzo, Mezzanego, Moneglia, Ne, Neirone, Orero, Pieve Ligure, Portofino, Rapallo, Recco, San Colombano Certenoli, Santa Margherita Ligure, Sestri Levante, Sori, Tribogna, Uscio, Zoagli and, in part, the territory of the municipalities of Genoa, Lorsica and Moconesi.
Wine-producing in Golfo del Tigullio has a long history, with evidence that is more recent than other wineries around Genoa.
It is believed that the cultivation of vines started in Tigullio in the late Middle Ages under the guidance of Benedictine monastic congregations. This practice eventually spread to all areas, both coastal and inland - from Casarza's hinterland to the hills.
The wines from the area were well-known and respected even beyond the boundaries of Portofino and Italy. In fact, it was in the early decades of the twentieth century that Portofino wines started appearing on London markets, further strengthening its reputation.
Golfo del Tigullio-Portofino wine region was officially granted the Denomination of Controlled Origin status on September 1, 1997. This recognition highlights its quality and characteristics, providing assurance to consumers that this particular wine is of a consistently high standard.
The Golfo del Tigullio/Portofino region has plenty of reason to be proud of its selection of wines. It produces a broad range, including reds, rosés, whites, and sparkling wines that are enjoyed throughout the Italian region of Liguria. Wines from the Golfo del Tigullio region are typically light and refreshing, crafted from Moscato Bianco, Scimiscià, Vermentino, and Bianchetta Genovese. Reds and rosés are also produced from indigenous grapes such as Ciliegiolo and Dolcetto.
For single-varietal wines, a minimum of 85% must consist of the specified variety, with other approved types making up the rest. These are some of the white wines Bianchetta Genovese, Muscat Blanc (also as Passito), Scimiscià or Çimixâ and Vermentino available, in addition to the popular red wine Ciliegiolo (also known as Novello).
Bianco, Passito and Spumante are blended from Vermentino and/or Bianchetta Genovese with a maximum of 60%, with other authorized grape varieties being allowed to make up the rest at 40%.
Rosso and Rosato wines are made from Ciliegiolo and Dolcetto (max. 60%), along with other sanctioned varieties (not more than 40%). Novello wine is also produced in the same process.
Several varieties of wine, such as Bianco, Rosso, Rosato, Bianchetta Genovese, Vermentino, and Ciliegiolo are used in making Frizzante - a sparkling variety of wine.
Winemaking requirements:
The DOC wines of Golfo del Tigullio-Portofino are renowned for their unique quality and characteristics, all thanks to the unwavering oenological practices employed during the vinification stages. These practices guarantee that the wine produced is up to par in terms of quality, and consistent with its traditional style.
Caciocavallo Silano, one of the oldest and most iconic cheese varieties in Southern Italy, originated in the Sila Plateau. Over time, its production gradually expanded to different regions along the Apennines mountain range. Caciocavallo is a popular cheese found in the regions of southern Italy such as Basilicata, Calabria, Campania, Molise, and Apulia. It is made from cow's milk and has a mild salty taste with a smooth, firm texture.
Caciocavallo cheese undergoes a ripening process that enhances its flavor and texture, making it perfect for grating. The cheese was given its name due to the technique used in maturing it - the cheeses are hung side by side from a wooden saddle rack (cavallo).
Salamino piccante is a type of pork salami that is popular in Italy. It has a long, cylindrical shape and is usually cured with herbs and freshly ground red chili pepper, giving it a hint of spiciness which many find pleasant. Salami can be used as an interesting topping for pizzas like pizza alla diavola. It can also be enjoyed in the form of cold cuts accompanied by cheese or even consumed on its own.
Funghi trifolati is a classic Italian dish cooked in olive oil and flavored with parsley, and garlic. It's typically made up of mushrooms, garlic, olive oil, parsley, and salt. Mushrooms are usually quartered and cooked in a pan with olive oil, garlic, and parsley. This dish can be enjoyed on its own in shallow bowls along with some crunchy bread or served as a side hot or cold accompaniment for meat or polenta dishes.
Fresh porcini mushrooms are highly recommended when it comes to cooking, however, any other types of mushroom can be used such as button, cremini, shiitake and chanterelles.
Every year, Genoa - which was once a great maritime power - holds its world-renowned Salone Nautico, one of the biggest boat shows in the world. The Salone Nautico International exhibition is held every year at the Fiera di Genoa to showcase the newest models, designs and developments in yachts, sailboats, motorboats, superyachts and nautical tech with over 1000 boats displayed. If you're in Genoa, don't miss out on the incredible opportunity of witnessing the Ocean Race round-the-world sailing regatta. Members of the team participating in this thrilling event will be present and you'll get to experience something truly memorable.
Porto Venere in Liguria, near the Italian town of La Spezia, is a picturesque area with stunning islands, caves, old churches and castles. It's the perfect spot for a memorable holiday getaway; from exciting excursions to unique sightseeing opportunities. Exploring the Porto Venere Historic Centre involves taking a journey back to the 11th century. As you walk in, you will find yourself surrounded by stunning ancient buildings, each with its unique architecture.
St. Lorenzo and St. Peter churches in Porto Venere radiate grandeur and have an old-world charm that is hard to ignore. It's not surprising that it's been designated a World Cultural Heritage site by UNESCO in 1997, adding yet another accolade to its list of achievements. This picturesque town is known for its stunning walking trails, spread across a diverse range of terrains. Tourists have been frequenting this place for years due to these amazing pathways.
Corniglia, located between five towns, is frequently forgotten due to its lacking beachfront attractions. The steep staircase leading up the hill may hinder some from venturing there as well; however, a bus stops in the area for those who don't wish to make the strenuous climb.
As the town lacked a port, it had to depend heavily on the agricultural practices of its people. The terrain was filled with steep hills and rock surfaces but the locals managed to make it productive by terracing them to grow grapes, which is referred to as "fasce" in their native language. Vernaccia di Corniglia, a white wine speciality, has been renowned since the 1300s when it was mentioned in Boccaccio's Decameron. This centuries-old drink remains popular to this day.
Corniglia may be a small town, but it offers plenty of scenic attractions at every level. Whether you explore the hilltop or the shoreline, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views and clean, crystal-clear waters - plus near-empty streets and beaches. There are many different places worth visiting here.
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