The WinesThe Wines

Cortona is renowned for wine production. Largely rural, the land is steeped in historical, cultural and artistic tradition, and reveals numerous incentives for the wine connoisseur and explorative traveler alike.

The area has evolved over the years from one of regional wine production, to that of blending wine, and onto the formation of elite and fine wines for a global interest.

An active grape-growing area since Etruscan times, Cortona fosters an ideal climate for the cultivation of grapevines with its hot, dry climate and sandy soil. In fact, the municipality has been so successful at wine production over the past few decades, D.O.C. recognition was established in 1999 due to the efforts of the region’s top winegrowers who sought more homogeneous production techniques.

A host of varietals run the gamut from Chardonnay and Riesling to Cabernet, Merlot, Pinot, and other less recognized wines. Those which have demonstrated tremendous success for broad consumption are Sangiovese for red, and Trebbiano for white.

Syrah, which fares exceptionally well as a result of the climactic conditions, is gaining popularity. Prized for its full-bodied characteristic and ample berry, spicy and savory notes, Syrah is widely acclaimed the world over, and Cortona Syrahs are now deep in the running.

The real test of Cortona wines are how well they fare with food; after all, eating anywhere in Italy can be a gastronomic event. In Cortona, though the food is quite simple – redolent of earthy and savory elements – the flavors are lush and wonderful, and no dish is complete without a glass of the local vino.

With the tremendous variety of wines offered in Cortona, many of the region’s varietals, especially the ever-accommodating Syrahs, pair well with an assortment of local fare, including handmade pasta dishes, meats, wild game, beans, soups, and salads. Even dessert begs a glass or two, which proves that adding to the town’s fertile past and splendid cuisine is its bounty of fine wines.

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