Table of Contents
What is Amelia DOC?
Amelia DOC is a small but historic wine appellation in southern Umbria, Italy, celebrated for its expressive Ciliegiolo-based reds, crisp Grechetto whites, and the rare sweet wines of Vin Santo Occhio di Pernice. Once known as Colli Amerini DOC, Amelia DOC reflects centuries of viticulture in the Amerini hills and represents one of Umbria’s best-kept secrets for wine travelers and collectors alike.
History and Origins
The wines of Amelia trace their roots back to the Etruscans and Romans, who cultivated vineyards in this fertile pocket of Umbria. In medieval times, the hilltop town of Amelia—one of Italy’s oldest continuously inhabited settlements—flourished as a trading hub. By the mid-20th century, the vineyards surrounding Amelia were codified under the Colli Amerini DOC (1972), later renamed Amelia DOC (2011) to better reflect local identity and heritage.
Where It’s Made: Geography & Terroir
Amelia DOC lies in the southern reaches of Umbria, near the border with Lazio. The vineyards spread across rolling hills between the Tiber River and Apennine foothills, with elevations ranging from 200–500 meters.
- Soils: Rich in clay and limestone, lending structure and freshness.
- Climate: A continental–Mediterranean mix, with warm days, cool nights, and seasonal rainfall that preserves acidity.
- Terroir Expression: Wines balance ripeness and aromatic vibrancy, often compared to Tuscany but with Umbria’s earthy depth.
The Grapes
The DOC covers both red and white styles, but it is Ciliegiolo that shines brightest here:
| Wine Style | Key Grapes | Notes |
| Rosso Amelia DOC | Ciliegiolo, Sangiovese, Montepulciano | Red cherry, herbs, spice, velvety tannins |
| Bianco Amelia DOC | Grechetto, Malvasia, Trebbiano | Fresh, floral, citrusy, almond finish |
| Vin Santo Occhio di Pernice | Sangiovese, Ciliegiolo | Rare sweet wine; figs, dates, caramel |
| Vin Santo (White) | Trebbiano, Malvasia | Golden, honeyed, oxidative elegance |
Winemaking & DOC Regulations
- Rosso & Riserva: Must include at least 60% Ciliegiolo, aged minimum 2 years for Riserva.
- Bianco: Typically Grechetto-led, fresh and unoaked.
- Vin Santo: Produced via appassimento, where grapes are dried before fermentation, then aged in small barrels for years.
These regulations safeguard Amelia DOC’s authenticity while allowing producers to express individuality.
Key Facts at a Glance
- Region: Southern Umbria (Province of Terni)
- DOC Status: 2011 (formerly Colli Amerini DOC, est. 1972)
- Signature Grape: Ciliegiolo
- Notable Style: Vin Santo Occhio di Pernice
- Climate: Continental-Mediterranean with diurnal shifts
- Elevation: 200–500m
Tasting Notes
- Ciliegiolo Rosso: Red cherry, pomegranate, dried herbs, soft spice; medium-bodied with gentle tannins.
- Grechetto Bianco: Lemon zest, wildflowers, almond; crisp and food-friendly.
- Vin Santo Occhio di Pernice: Dried fig, caramel, cocoa, roasted nuts; unctuous and long-lasting.
Serving & Pairing
- Rosso: Pair with Umbrian specialties like wild boar ragù, lentil stew, or aged pecorino.
- Bianco: Excellent with grilled trout, vegetable pastas, and olive-oil based dishes.
- Vin Santo: A meditation wine with biscotti (cantucci), blue cheese, or dark chocolate.
Serving Temperature:
- Red: 16–18°C
- White: 8–10°C
- Vin Santo: 12–14°C
Where to Buy & Pricing
- Rosso Amelia DOC: $15–25
- Grechetto Bianco DOC: $12–20
- Vin Santo Occhio di Pernice: Rare; $35–60+ for half bottles
Wines are available through Italian specialists, online retailers like Wine-Searcher or Eataly Vino, and directly from producers during cellar visits.
FAQ on Amelia DOC
What grape is Amelia DOC best known for?
Ciliegiolo, a red variety whose name means “little cherry,” is Amelia’s star grape.
Is Amelia DOC the same as Colli Amerini?
Yes. The appellation was renamed in 2011 to emphasize Amelia’s historic town identity.
Does Amelia DOC make sweet wines?
Yes—its Vin Santo Occhio di Pernice is a rare, long-aged dessert wine made from red grapes.
Is Amelia DOC worth visiting for wine tourism?
Absolutely—Amelia DOC offers a quieter, more intimate wine travel experience compared to Tuscany. Visitors can explore hilltop towns, family-owned wineries, and olive groves.
Fun Facts & Cultural Notes
- Amelia claims to be one of Italy’s oldest towns, founded around 1134 BC.
- Ciliegiolo is genetically linked to Sangiovese, though in Amelia it stands proudly on its own.
- Olive oil production is just as important as wine here, making Amelia a paradise for food and wine agritourism.
- The DOC is often called “Umbria’s hidden gem”, making it a favorite for travelers seeking authentic Italy away from the crowds.
Wine Travel in Amelia DOC
Beyond the vineyards, Amelia offers agriturismi stays, cellar tours, and tastings where local wines are paired with Umbrian olive oil, lentils, and handmade pastas. Recommended producers include Cantine Zanchi and Fattoria Le Poggette, both champions of Ciliegiolo.
Call to Action
✨ Planning a wine trip through Umbria? Don’t just stop at Orvieto—venture south to Amelia for intimate cellar tours, unforgettable Vin Santo tastings, and rustic meals in olive-fringed vineyards. Share your Amelia wine moments with us using #DrinkItalian—we’d love to feature your journey.
