Guide to Le Colline del Prosecco di Conegliano e Valdobbiadene: A Must-Visit Destination for Wine Enthusiasts and Tourists

Overview

Welcome to Le Colline del Prosecco di Conegliano e Valdobbiadene, a stunning region in the Veneto area of Italy, famous for its production of high-quality Prosecco wine. This guide will provide you with comprehensive information about this picturesque area, including its history, geography, wineries, attractions, and tips for visiting as a tourist.

History

The Prosecco grape has been cultivated in the Conegliano and Valdobbiadene areas since the late 16th century. However, it was not until the 20th century that the DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) and DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) classifications were established to ensure the quality of Prosecco produced in this region. Today, Le Colline del Prosecco di Conegliano e Valdobbiadene is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its unique landscape and cultural significance.

Geography

Le Colline del Prosecco di Conegliano e Valdobbiadene lies between the cities of Treviso and Belluno, covering a total area of approximately 15,000 hectares. The region is characterized by rolling hills, vineyards, and charming villages that offer breathtaking views. The area’s climate is temperate, with cool winters and warm, humid summers, making it ideal for the cultivation of Prosecco grapes.

Wineries (Cantine)

Visiting local wineries is a must when exploring Le Colline del Prosecco di Conegliano e Valdobbiadene. Here are some of the most renowned cantine in the region:

1. Bellussi: Located in the heart of the Conegliano area, Bellussi offers tours and tastings of its prestigious Prosecco Superiore DOCG wines.

2. La Viarte: Situated in the village of San Pietro di Feletto, La Viarte specializes in producing Prosecco Superiore DOCG and sparkling wines using traditional methods.

3. Trevigiani: Nestled in the picturesque village of Refrontolo, Trevigiani produces high-quality Prosecco Superiore DOCG wines, as well as a range of still wines.

4. Zonin 1821: One of the largest wineries in the region, Zonin 1821 offers guided tours and tastings of its extensive range of Prosecco wines at its vineyard estate in Conegliano.

Attractions

In addition to visiting wineries, Le Colline del Prosecco di Conegliano e Valdobbiadene boasts a variety of attractions that cater to tourists:

1. Palladian Villas: The region is home to several stunning Palladian villas, including Villa Emo and Villa Sandi, which showcase the architect’s unique style and offer insight into the area’s rich history.

2. Conegliano Museum of Wine: Learn about the history, production, and culture of Prosecco at this fascinating museum in Conegliano.

3. Valdobbiadene Prosecco Museum: Explore the history of Prosecco production in Valdobbiadene through interactive exhibits, tastings, and guided tours.

4. Conegliano Alta Vicenza: Take a stroll through this charming medieval town, which offers beautiful architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and stunning views of the surrounding hills.

Tips for Visiting

1. Plan your trip according to the harvest season (September - October) to witness the grape picking process firsthand.

2. Purchase a Prosecco Passport, which allows you to visit multiple wineries and enjoy discounts on tastings.

3. Rent a bike or take a guided tour to explore the vineyards and villages at your own pace.

4. Try both the Extra Dry and Brut styles of Prosecco to appreciate the nuanced differences in flavor profiles.

5. Savor local cuisine, such as bigoli pasta with anchovies, polenta, and various cured meats, while enjoying your Prosecco tastings.

Le Colline del Prosecco di Conegliano e Valdobbiadene offers an unforgettable experience for wine enthusiasts and tourists alike. By following this guide, you’ll have a better understanding of the region’s history, geography, wineries, attractions, and tips for visiting as a tourist. Salute! 🍾