Candia Colli Apuani Wine Region

A small wine-growing region called Candia Colli Apuani is located in central Italy along the Ligurian Sea coast. Although the region's wines are of the highest caliber, they are not as well known as those from Tuscany's other wine districts. Vermentino is the main grape used to make white wines, while Sangiovese is the base fruit used to make red wines along with a variety of other grapes. Additionally, Barsaglina, a rare red Tuscan grape type that was just saved, is grown in this area. The region's 27 hectares of well-planted vineyards yield 1041 hectoliters of wine annually. The Candia hills, which are a portion of the northern Apennines on the border of Tuscany, bear the name of the Apuanu Ligures people who originally resided there.

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Where is the Candia Colli Apuani wine region?

Candia The Colli Apuani wine region is situated in Tuscany's northwest, which borders the Ligurian Sea on its western side. The province of Massa-Carrara contains the Tuscan cities of Massa, Carrara, and Montignoso. The Apennine mountain range, the Tyrrhenian coast, and the Apuan alps all border the wine region. To the northwest and southeast of the area, respectively, are the Colli di Luni DOC and Colline Lucchesi DOC. The area is located 117 kilometers southeast of Genoa, 197 kilometers southwest of Bologna, 325 kilometers west of San Marino, and 390 kilometers northwest of Rome.

History of the Candia Colli Apuani wine region

In writings from 200 BC, the region of Candia Colli Apuani's winemaking is referenced. During Roman times, the area served as a junction for the routes of Aurelia and Francigena. Between the 14th and 16th centuries, this region was repeatedly invaded by Romans, Lombards, Normans, and other lordships, resulting in a diversified culture, rich heritage, and wonderful gastronomy. The Etruscans, monks, and townspeople continued the Roman-era practice of viticulture and winemaking in the Candia Colli Apuani region. The area began producing high-quality wines with a concentration of grapes with concentrated flavors and low yields. The Candia Colli Apuani DOC, which includes red, rose, white, and sweet wines, was established in 1981.

The terroir and geography of the Candia Colli Apuani wine region

The tall Apuani peaks and the Ligurian Sea have a significant impact on the area's climate. Summers are hotter in the lowlands close to the ocean than in the hilly region. A tiny plain region close to the sea can be found among the rugged and mountainous landscape. The Apuan Hills are viewed as tall, arid mountains covered in lush vegetation, with steep hills and short plains draped in vines. The slopes are frequently terraced, which has been done for many generations and presents a difficult task for vine growers. The vines grown on the Apuani Hills' slopes are well shielded from westerly winds. In the Candia Colli Apuani region, siltstones, clays, and quartz-feldspathic make up the majority of the soil.

Popular grape varieties from the Candia Colli Apuani wine region

The Vermentino grape variety is the dominant grape cultivated in the Candia Colli Apuani wine region accounting for more than 90% of total grape production. The region is also home to Basaglina grapes, a rare Tuscan grape variety, which was recently rescued and accounts for 9%. Grapes cultivated in the region are as follows:

Red Varietals: Barsaglina, Sangiovese, Vermentino Nero, Ciliegiolo, Massaretta, Buanamico, and Barsaglina.

White varietals: Vermentino, Albarola, and Trebbiano Toscano.

Food to pair with Candia Colli Apuani wine 

Cured meat

Cured meat is one of the oldest and most popular forms of food preservation. It has been used for centuries to preserve food for long-term storage and consumption. Curing meat involves a combination of salt, sugar, spices, and other ingredients to reduce the moisture content in the meat, thus preventing spoilage. The result is a delicious and flavorful product that can be stored for months or even years without losing its taste or texture. Cured meats are widely enjoyed around the world in various forms such as salami, bacon, ham, pastrami, and more. Pair any cured meat with wines from the Candia Colli Apuani wine region. 

Grilled lean fish

Grilled lean fish is a delicious and healthy meal option. It's low in fat and calories, yet full of flavor. Grilled lean fish is easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Grilling lean fish allows you to retain its natural flavor while keeping it low in fat. The key to grilling lean fish is to use the right type of heat, marinade, and seasoning. It can be enjoyed as part of a main course or as an appetizer. With the right seasoning and marinade, grilled lean fish can be transformed into a flavorful dish that will please any palate.

White sauce pasta

Pasta dishes prepared with white sauce, a milk-based sauce, are one example. Butter, flour, and milk are frequently used to make creamy sauce. Pasta with white sauce can be the main course or an appetizer. Several types of pasta, such as fettuccine, spaghetti, and rigatoni, can be used to prepare this dish.

Since the early 1600s, white sauce pasta dishes have been popular in Italy. Pasta with butter was the original name for it, which is "pasta al burro." The moniker "spaghetti and meatballs" was given to this dish in the 1950s when it first became popular in the United States.

Places to visit in the Candia Colli Apuani wine region

Massa Marina

With its immaculate beach, great climate, and laid-back atmosphere, Massa Marina makes for the perfect vacation spot for relaxation. The region includes a small portion of the northernmost Tuscan coastline strip, which is particularly well-liked by both residents and visitors. This tourist hotspot began its voyage in the early 20th century, but it wasn't until after World War II that it gained international recognition. You can fish along the river, ride a bike, stroll along the pier, take a boat ride along the coast, or simply relax on the beach.

Malaspina Castle

The historic castle Malaspina Castle, which is built atop a rocky hill with a panoramic view of the plains and coastlines, serves as the city of Massa's symbol. The Malaspina family constructed this fortified castle nine centuries ago. From the 17th century until the end of the 18th century, the fortress was used as a military front before being converted into a jail. After renovation, the castle was made public. There are two main sections to the castle. The fortifications include artillery rooms, passageways, and bastions. The residential neighborhood has a beautiful interior courtyard with remarkable works of art, which makes it interesting. 

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