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What is Colli del Trasimeno DOC?
Colli del Trasimeno DOC—also known simply as Trasimeno DOC—is one of Umbria’s most distinctive wine appellations. Nestled around the shimmering Lake Trasimeno, the region is best known for its Gamay del Trasimeno grape, a variety genetically linked to Grenache, not the French Gamay of Beaujolais. This “mistaken identity” story is part of its charm, making the wines of Trasimeno both authentic and intriguing.
History and Origins
Viticulture around Lake Trasimeno dates back to the Etruscans, who prized the lake’s fertile soils. Over the centuries, Umbrian monasteries and noble families developed vineyards, but the region was overshadowed by its Tuscan neighbors. The official Trasimeno DOC designation was established in 1972, cementing the area’s role as a protector of indigenous grape traditions.
Where It’s Made: Geography & Terroir
The DOC covers the rolling hills around Lake Trasimeno, Umbria’s largest lake, near the Tuscan border. The terroir benefits from:
- Lake influence: Mild temperatures, reduced frost risk, balanced ripening
- Soils: Sandy clay with marl and limestone pockets, offering minerality
- Climate: Mediterranean with continental shifts, ideal for Grenache-like grapes
This creates wines with freshness, elegance, and Mediterranean character—an Umbrian alternative to Tuscan wines.
The Grape: Gamay del Trasimeno
Despite its name, Gamay del Trasimeno is actually Grenache (Cannonau in Sardinia, Garnacha in Spain). Introduced centuries ago, it adapted beautifully to Umbria’s microclimate. The grape yields wines with ripe red fruit, spice, and supple tannins, making them both food-friendly and age-worthy.
White and rosé wines here often feature Grechetto, Trebbiano, and Malvasia Bianca, adding diversity to the DOC.
Colli del Trasimeno DOC Wine Styles: White, Red, Rosé & Sparkling
- Reds (Rosso / Riserva) – Primarily Gamay del Trasimeno; structured, spicy, age-worthy
- Whites (Bianco / Superiore) – Grechetto-led blends; fresh, mineral-driven
- Rosé (Rosato) – Delicate, strawberry-scented, ideal for summer
- Sparkling (Spumante) – Rare but increasingly appreciated for aperitivo culture
Winemaking & DOC Regulations
- Reds: Minimum 70% Gamay del Trasimeno for varietal bottlings; Riserva requires 24 months aging
- Whites: Grechetto minimum 50%
- Rosé: Flexible blends, often Gamay + Grechetto
- Sparkling: Traditional or Charmat method permitted
Key Facts at a Glance
📍 Region: Umbria, Italy – Lake Trasimeno
🍇 Key Grape: Gamay del Trasimeno (Grenache)
📜 DOC Established: 1972
🍷 Styles: Red, White, Rosé, Sparkling
💶 Average Price: €12–25 ($15–30)
Tasting Notes
- Reds: Ripe cherry, raspberry, Mediterranean herbs, white pepper, soft tannins
- Whites: Citrus, almond, floral notes, mineral backbone
- Rosé: Fresh red berry fruit, floral, crisp finish
- Sparkling: Lively, citrus-driven, refreshing
Serving & Pairing
- Reds: Perfect with Umbrian classics like porchetta, lentil stews, and roasted lamb
- Whites: Pair with lake fish, truffle pasta, or pecorino cheese
- Rosé: Aperitivo, cured meats, summer salads
- Sparkling: Fried antipasti or seafood
Best Colli del Trasimeno Wines to Buy: Producer Recommendations
- Madrevite – Modern, terroir-driven Gamay del Trasimeno
- Castel di Salce – Traditional Umbrian winemaking heritage
- Duca della Corgna – Cooperative making benchmark examples
- Pucciarella – Elegant, structured reds
Vintage Guide (2020–2023)
- 2020: Warm year, concentrated reds
- 2021: Balanced, elegant wines with freshness
- 2022: Hot summer, ripe fruit, accessible early
- 2023: Promising, cooler conditions, bright acidity
Wine Tourism: Visiting Lake Trasimeno Wineries
Lake Trasimeno is a wine tourism gem. Visitors can:
- Tour vineyards with lake views
- Combine wine tasting with boat rides to Isola Maggiore
- Enjoy wine festivals like Trasimeno Blues & Wine
- Stay in agriturismi overlooking the vineyards
Where to Buy & Pricing
Colli del Trasimeno wines are still value-driven:
- In Umbria: €8–15 in local shops
- Abroad: $15–30 in specialty wine stores or online retailers
- Best value: Reds under €20 labeled “Gamay del Trasimeno”
FAQ on Colli del Trasimeno DOC
- What food pairs best with Colli del Trasimeno wine?
Reds shine with pork, lamb, and lentils, while whites pair with lake fish and truffles. - Is Colli del Trasimeno wine organic?
Many small producers farm organically or biodynamically, though not all are certified. - How long can Trasimeno DOC wine age?
Riservas age gracefully for 8–10 years; fresher styles best within 3–5 years. - Gamay del Trasimeno vs French Gamay: What’s the difference?
Despite the name, Trasimeno’s Gamay is Grenache, producing richer, spicier wines compared to Beaujolais’ light-bodied Gamay.
Fun Facts & Cultural Notes
- Lake Trasimeno was the site of Hannibal’s famous 217 BC battle against Rome.
- Locals enjoy Gamay del Trasimeno with Torta al Testo, a rustic Umbrian flatbread.
- The “mistaken identity” grape story adds intrigue for collectors.
Have you ever tasted Gamay del Trasimeno, Umbria’s Grenache-in-disguise? Share your favorite Trasimeno DOC wine or winery experience in the comments—or tag us @DrinkItalian to join the conversation.
Have fun to learn more about Italian Wines and Spirits! Explore also the non-alcoholic beverages
Send us an email if you want to suggest edits, or if you are looking for more info, at
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If you are in the mood for a good book, you can try:
– The Modern History of Italian Wine by Walter Filipputti
– Hidden Gems of Italy: An Insider’s Secret Formula To Find Top-Class Italian Wines At Value Prices And Taste La Dolce Vita by Tony Margiotta
Additionally, you can discover the other wines from Umbria.
