Bivongi Doc Wines

Wines that hark back to Magna Graecia

Among the many excellences of Calabria, wine is the one with the deepest roots. The region between the Ionian and Tyrrhenian seas, in fact, with foundation lies at the center ofancient Oenotria, the land where the Greeks, hand in hand with the founding of new colonies, starting in the eighth century B.C., introduced vines to our peninsula. In the case of the inland coast, the re-enactment leads to the city of Kaulonia, which stood near Punta Stilo, now in the municipality of Monasterace. This, the radiating point of viticulture in the back of the Stilaro valley, where Bivongi is located, today's holder of a DOC production involving nine wineries in ten municipalities straddling the border between Reggio Calabria and Catanzaro.

Terraced vineyards in the early Ionian hinterland

The vineyards are located on the eastern slope of the Serre Range, in the area delineated by coastal hills and the various waterways that meander between the ridges toward the Ionian Sea. The production area encompasses a territory that covers the Ionian strip for about 25 km and reaches more than 10 km inland. From the littoral areas, there is a transition to terraced areas located inland. The proximity of the sea is important, as it helps moderate summer heat. In addition, the day-night temperature range causes morning and afternoon breezes in summer, which minimizes the risk of adversity. Production involves red and rosé wines from Gaglioppo, Greco Nero, Nocera and Calabrese grapes, and white wines from Greco Bianco, Malvasia Bianca and Ansonica grapes.

The Rosso Riserva, the highest expression of the territory

Calabria was appreciated in the 20th century for the production of robust, high-alcohol wines, especially reds of great character, which in the Bivongi area today are recognized in the Rosso Riserva. Resuming the description given by a quoted producer, " this wine is produced from indigenous grape varieties - Greco Nero, Gaglioppo and Calabrese - that reflect the link with the territory. It has an intense ruby red color with garnet highlights and has complex nuances of berries and spices, along with toasted and mineral notes. The palate is full, with velvety tannins and a harmonious finish. It boasts great longevity and exemplary elegance."