Colline Novaresi Wine Region

The universal zone Colline Novaresi DOC noted for its gorgeous, delicate, and wonderfully tasty wines created from indigenous grape varieties have been allocated between the Seccia River and Ticino. Since ancient times, vineyards have been grown in DOC Colline Novaresi, where an exquisite, fragrant wine is produced. 

DOC Colline Novaresi wines are now well-known around the world. Tourists come here to visit local wineries, to gaze at the magnificent, panoramic green hills dotted with vineyards, and, of course, to immerse themselves in the wonderful local taste. Aside from wine, Colline Novaresi DOC is well-known for its numerous sausage and mushroom delicacies, as well as the lake's fish.

We encourage you to explore our site to discover what Wineries in Colline Novaresi have to offer and organize a winery visit today.

Where is the Colline Novaresi Wine Region?

Colline Novaresi wine appellation is located north of Piedmont, 30 kilometers south of the lake Lago Maggiore, and 40 kilometers of Milan.

It is located in a hilly-mountainous location north of Novara, between the Seccia and Ticino rivers.  The plains near Novara town are famed for rice, while wines have been grown in the northern portion of the province at the foot of Monte Rosa Mountain from time immemorial. 

Unique Terroir of Colline Novaresi Wine Appellation

The DOC Colline Novaresi regulated zone was established in 1994. It is located in a hilly-mountainous location north of Novara, between the Seccia and Ticino rivers. Vineyards can be grown at altitudes ranging from 180 to 550 meters. The hills at the foot of Monte Rosa are made up of glacial and alluvial rocks. They contain various mixtures of silt, sand, and clay, as well as many stones. There are continental characteristics and a moderate climate. Winds constantly blow through it, bringing cold air down from the mountains and warm air up from the plain.

History of Colline Novaresi

Consul Claudio Marcello discovered grapes when he founded Novara as a Roman city in 196 BC. Celts resided here before the Romans and established a town to govern the plain. Another, more tempting story for wine enthusiasts is that the Celts migrated here because they preferred the local sweet wine made in the hills. Pliny described local winemaking during the Roman era.

The area grew under the influence of the church during the Middle Ages. Novara was a diocese that comprised the vineyards of Boka and Gemme. In addition, the archbishop owned vines in Boka. Since the territories were free of feudalism, agriculture could flourish. By the Renaissance, prestigious wines came from the vineyards of Boca and Gemme.

Military operations have often affected the Novara territory since the 15th century. The city was finally taken over by the House of Savoy in 1734. The battles between Piedmont and Austria at Novara in the middle of the nineteenth century marked the start of the national liberation movement for the unification of Italy.

Winemaking in Colline Novaresi flourished about a hundred years ago. Prior to WWII, the vineyards of Novara and nearby Vercelli covered over 10,000 hectares. Peasants, on the other hand, migrated to cities after the conflict. The vineyards had been abandoned and had become covered with trees. The planting area is now limited, and winemaking is developing thanks to a small group of passionate winemakers.

What is Colline Novaresi Wine?

DOC Colline Novaresi wines are red, rosé, and white made from indigenous grape varietals. Red Rosso and rose Rosato include at least 50% Nebbiolo (the local name is Spanna). Nebbiolo (Spanna), Uva Rara (Bonarda Novarese), Barbera, Vespolina, and Croatina are the five red varietal wines. At least 85 % of the matching grade must be present in the wine. The Erbaluche variety yields White Bianco (100% as part of the wine).

Food to Pair with Colline Novaresi Wine

Anatra farcita alla novarese 

Anatra farcita alla novarese is a typical Piemontese dish that consists of a baked duck filled with a tasty mixture of pork, veal, various sausages, eggs, rice, chopped parsley, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. During baking, the duck is basted every now and then by pouring the tray juices over the meat to keep it moist and succulent.

After cooking, the duck should rest for a few minutes, firmly covered, to develop its full flavor before being cut and served with dripping juices. Anatra farcita alla novarese is a wonderful delight for the palette, and because of its intricate preparation, it is reserved for special occasions. 

Insalata di riso novarese

Insalata di riso novarese is a Novara-based traditional Italian rice salad. Arborio rice, olive oil, anchovies, parsley, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper are common ingredients in the salad. In olive oil, sauté the garlic and anchovies until the anchovies become mushy.

The sauce is taken off the stove, allowed to cool, and then poured over cooked rice. Before serving, the rice is decorated with parsley and sprinkled with lemon juice, and it is simply seasoned with salt and pepper to taste.

Places to Visit in Colline Novaresi Wine Region

The Old Town of Novara

Novara is a city founded by Gaius Julius Caesar, destroyed several times and rebuilt brick by brick – is an hour and a half drive from Turin to Milan. The Old Town is a favourite place of rest and walks for Novara residents — it is located at the intersection of Corso Mazzini and Corso Italia avenues and is the true "heart" of the city.

In every corner of the historical centre of Novara, you can still see traces of ancient history: Roman evidence and medieval buildings, Renaissance and Baroque palazzi still adorn the Old Town, although most of the buildings of the urban landscape belong to the nineteenth century. Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza Della Repubblica preserve an ancient medieval plan with cobbled streets and passages under columns.

The Island and Basilica of St Julius in Novara

On one of the smallest Alpine lakes of Horta, there is an equally small island of St. Julius. Its dimensions are only 140x275 meters, but at the same time, it is densely built up. The main attraction on it is the basilica of the same name, which is surrounded by majestic and austere buildings – the buildings of the monastery and the bishop's palace. The entire architectural complex of St. Julius Island, created in the Middle Ages by the Catholic Church, is now protected by UNESCO.

Frequently Asked Questions About Colline Novaresi Wine Region