Parmesan, Balsamic & Ham Tour - Foodie's Delight Tour
Parma, located in Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, is widely recognized for its culinary excellence, especially for its salumi and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. However, the region also boasts a rich winemaking tradition that is sometimes overlooked. The Colli di Parma, or the hills of Parma, produce some of the most delightful wines in Italy, including both sparkling and still varieties. For those planning to explore the region’s viticulture in 2024, here’s a comprehensive guide to the best wineries near Parma, each offering a unique experience in this picturesque landscape.
1. Monte delle Vigne
Location: Via Monticello, 22, 43044 Ozzano Taro, Fornovo di Taro PR, Italy
Website: monte delle vigne
Monte delle Vigne is one of the most prestigious wineries in the Colli di Parma region. Located on the rolling hills of Ozzano Taro, this winery covers 60 hectares of vineyards, producing a variety of wines that are deeply influenced by the region’s microclimate and soil composition. The winery is particularly known for its «Nabucco,» a red wine blend of Barbera and Merlot, and «Callas,» a crisp and aromatic white wine made from Malvasia di Candia Aromatica.
Experience: Visitors can enjoy guided tours of the vineyard and the cellars, culminating in a tasting session that includes a selection of their finest wines. The winery’s setting, with panoramic views of the surrounding hills, adds to the experience, making it a perfect stop for wine lovers.
Reviews: Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, the high quality of the wines, and the beautiful surroundings. Many highlight the Nabucco as a standout, often purchasing bottles to take home.
2. Cantina Il Poggio
Location: Strada del Poggio, 14, 43039 Salsomaggiore Terme PR, Italy
Website: cantina il poggio
Cantina Il Poggio is located in the lush hills of Salsomaggiore Terme, an area famed for its thermal baths and rich agricultural traditions. The winery produces a wide range of wines, including sparkling, white, red, and rosé, using both traditional and international grape varieties like Barbera, Bonarda, and Merlot.
Experience: The winery offers immersive tours that include a walk through the vineyards, a visit to the winemaking facilities, and tastings of their wines paired with local delicacies such as Prosciutto di Parma and Parmigiano-Reggiano. The estate also produces its own extra-virgin olive oil, which is included in the tasting sessions.
Reviews: Visitors often highlight the comprehensive tours and the opportunity to taste a variety of wines, all while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The Lambrusco produced here is particularly noted for its vibrant flavor and quality.
3. Lamoretti Azienda Agricola Vitivinicola
Location: Strada Della Nave, 6, 43013 Casatico, Langhirano, Parma, Italy
Website: lamoretti
This family-run winery is situated near the historic Castle of Torrechiara, a landmark in the Parma region. Lamoretti is known for its dedication to sustainable practices and its commitment to producing high-quality wines that reflect the unique terroir of the Colli di Parma. The winery specializes in both sparkling and still wines, with a focus on local varieties like Malvasia di Candia Aromatica and Barbera.
Experience: Guests can tour the vineyards and cellars, followed by a tasting session that often includes local food pairings. The Lamoretti family is deeply involved in every aspect of the winemaking process, and their passion is evident in the quality of their wines.
Reviews: Reviews frequently mention the warmth and hospitality of the Lamoretti family, the picturesque setting, and the outstanding quality of the wines. Many visitors recommend trying their sparkling Malvasia, which is noted for its aromatic and refreshing qualities.
4. Vigna Cunial
Location: Via Valtermina, 52/a, 43029 Traversetolo PR, Italy
Website: vigna cunial
Experience: The winery offers tours that provide insight into their organic farming practices and winemaking process. Visitors can enjoy tastings of their wines in a serene setting, often paired with local organic products from the estate. The focus on sustainability and the natural environment is a key part of the experience at Vigna Cunial, making it a unique destination for eco-conscious travelers.
Reviews: Visitors frequently praise the winery for its commitment to organic farming and the high quality of the wines. The peaceful setting and the passion of the owners for sustainability are also commonly highlighted. Many recommend trying their organic Lambrusco, which stands out for its purity and expression of the local terroir.
5. Ariola Vigne e Vini
Location: Strada della Buca, 5/A, 43010 Calicella di Pilastro, Langhirano, Parma, Italy
Website: vini ariola
Ariola Vigne e Vini is another top winery located near Langhirano, an area known for its rich winemaking history. The winery is famous for its «Marcello» Lambrusco, which has won several international awards and is considered one of the best examples of this sparkling wine. The estate also produces a variety of other wines, including Malvasia, Barbera, and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Experience: The winery offers guided tours that include a walk through the vineyards, a visit to the modern production facilities, and tastings of their wines. The tasting sessions are often paired with local culinary specialties, providing a comprehensive experience of the region’s food and wine culture.
Reviews: Ariola Vigne e Vini receives excellent reviews for its well-organized tours, high-quality wines, and beautiful location. The «Marcello» Lambrusco is particularly praised for its rich, fruity flavor and fine bubbles. Visitors also appreciate the knowledgeable staff and the welcoming atmosphere of the winery.
Wine and Salumi Pairings
The wines from these Colli di Parma wineries pair wonderfully with the region’s renowned salumi. Here are some recommendations:
- Prosciutto di Parma: This delicate, sweet ham pairs best with a light, aromatic white wine such as Lamoretti’s Malvasia di Candia or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc from Vigna Cunial. The acidity and fruitiness of these wines balance the rich flavors of the prosciutto.
- Culatello di Zibello: For the rich and complex flavors of Culatello, a Barbera or Merlot from Monte delle Vigne provides the perfect complement. These red wines offer a robust backbone that enhances the savory notes of the Culatello.
- Spalla Cotta di San Secondo: The cooked, tender texture of Spalla Cotta is well-matched with a Lambrusco from Ariola Vigne e Vini. The slight effervescence and fruity flavor of the Lambrusco contrast beautifully with the spalla cotta’s rich taste.
- Spalla Cruda di Palasone: This raw, aged salumi pairs excellently with a Cabernet Sauvignon or Pinot Nero from Cantina Il Poggio. The boldness of these reds complements the depth of flavor in the Spalla Cruda.
- Strolghino: The sweet and tender Strolghino is best enjoyed with a light, slightly sweet white wine like the Callas from Monte delle Vigne. The wine’s floral and citrus notes enhance the delicate flavors of this salumi.
- Salame Felino: For the robust and savory Salame Felino, a full-bodied red wine like a Barbera or Bonarda from Vigna Cunial is an ideal match. These wines have enough structure to stand up to the bold flavors of the salami.
Conclusion
The Colli di Parma region offers a remarkable wine experience that is deeply connected to the rich culinary traditions of Parma. Whether you’re visiting the elegant vineyards of Monte delle Vigne or exploring the organic practices at Vigna Cunial, each winery provides a unique glimpse into the art of winemaking in this historic region. Pairing these wines with Parma’s famous salumi only enhances the experience, making it a must-do for any food and wine lover visiting Italy.
For those planning a visit in 2024, be sure to include these wineries on your itinerary and enjoy the full spectrum of flavors that this extraordinary region has to offer.