Pronunciation: Colli di Faenza [KOL-lee dee fah-EN-tsah]
At a Glance
- Region: Emilia-Romagna, Italy
- Established: 1997 DOC status
- Grapes: Sangiovese, Trebbiano Romagnolo, Albana, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon
- Wine Styles: Red, White, Rosé, Spumante
- Best Recent Vintages: 2016, 2019, 2021
- Average Price Range: €8–18 ($12–25)
Aging Potential: 3–7 years for reds; 1–3 years for whites and rosés
Table of Contents
What is Colli di Faenza DOC?
The Colli di Faenza DOC is one of Emilia-Romagna’s best-kept secrets: a small but distinctive appellation producing expressive wines that reflect both the medieval history and artisanal soul of the city of Faenza, world-famous for its ceramics (faience). While Chianti and Lambrusco dominate the conversation about central Italy, Colli di Faenza represents a more intimate side of Italian wine culture—one that locals savor in trattorie, enotecas, and family gatherings.
Colli di Faenza DOC History: From Medieval Monasteries to Modern Recognition
Viticulture in the Faenza hills dates back to Roman times, when vineyards thrived along trade routes linking Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna. During the Middle Ages, monasteries maintained vineyards, ensuring wine was available for both liturgical and communal use. By the Renaissance, Faenza was flourishing as a cultural hub, exporting its signature ceramics across Europe. Local wines became synonymous with the city’s identity—pairing naturally with the region’s cuisine and artistic legacy.
The DOC designation arrived in 1997, codifying centuries of tradition while encouraging quality improvements. Today, Colli di Faenza remains a niche appellation celebrated for authenticity rather than mass production.
Where It’s Made: Geography & Terroir
The vineyards lie in the rolling Apennine foothills east of Bologna and south of Ravenna, surrounding the town of Faenza.
- Altitude: 100–400 meters
- Soil: Clay-limestone with pockets of marl, ideal for Sangiovese’s structure and Trebbiano’s freshness
- Climate: Continental with Adriatic influence; hot summers, cool evenings, and steady breezes preserving acidity
This terroir gives wines a balance of ripeness and vibrancy, making them approachable yet complex.
Colli di Faenza DOC Grape Varieties: Sangiovese, Trebbiano & More
- Sangiovese (reds): The star grape, offering cherry, violet, and earthy notes.
- Trebbiano Romagnolo (whites): Crisp, citrus-driven, with refreshing acidity.
- Albana: Adds richness and texture.
- Chardonnay & Sauvignon Blanc: Provide international flair.
- Cabernet Sauvignon & Merlot: Used in structured reds.
This flexible blend reflects Emilia-Romagna’s dual identity: proudly local, yet open to global influences.
Winemaking & DOC Regulations
The DOC permits a range of red, white, rosé, and sparkling wines, with rules ensuring quality and typicity:
- Reds (minimum 60% Sangiovese): Medium-bodied, fresh fruit, soft tannins.
- Whites: Trebbiano-based blends, sometimes with Chardonnay for roundness.
- Rosé (Rosato): Light, floral, food-friendly.
- Spumante: Mostly Charmat-method, lively and approachable.
- Aging: Riserva reds must age at least two years.
Key Facts at a Glance
- DOC Established: 1997
- Styles: Rosso, Bianco, Rosato, Spumante
- Grapes: Primarily Sangiovese and Trebbiano Romagnolo
- Best Recent Vintages: 2016, 2019, 2021
- Price: €8–18 average retail
Colli di Faenza DOC Wine Tasting Notes & Characteristics
- Red Wines: Ruby red, aromas of cherry, violet, and soft spice. Palate is medium-bodied with bright acidity, smooth tannins, and a savory finish.
- White Wines: Pale straw-yellow, citrus blossom, apple, and almond. Crisp, refreshing, ideal for aperitivo.
- Rosé: Salmon-pink, delicate strawberry and floral notes, lively on the palate.
- Sparkling: Lightly aromatic, with green apple and floral lift.
Serving & Pairing
- Serving Temperature:
- Reds: 16–18°C (60–64°F)
- Whites/Rosé: 8–10°C (46–50°F)
- Spumante: 6–8°C (42–46°F)
- Reds: 16–18°C (60–64°F)
- Pairings:
- Red Sangiovese blends: Tagliatelle al ragù or grilled meats
- Whites: Seafood risotto, piadina with squacquerone cheese
- Rosé: Prosciutto di Parma, summer salads
- Spumante: Aperitivo with fried zucchini blossoms
- Red Sangiovese blends: Tagliatelle al ragù or grilled meats
Where to Buy & Pricing
Colli di Faenza DOC wines are not widely exported, making them an insider’s choice for collectors of hidden gems.
- Italy: Found in Emilia-Romagna enotecas and restaurants
- International: Some availability via specialty importers (e.g., Wine-Searcher)
- Price Range: Affordable luxury (€8–18), compared to Tuscany’s higher-priced Sangiovese DOCGs
FAQ on Colli di Faenza DOC
- How to pronounce Colli di Faenza?
[KOL-lee dee fah-EN-tsah] - What makes Colli di Faenza DOC unique?
Its artisanal scale, links to Faenza ceramics, and approachable, food-friendly wines. - Are the wines age-worthy?
Yes—reds can evolve for 5–7 years, though most are best enjoyed young. - What’s the best food pairing?
Local Emilia-Romagna dishes: ragù, piadina, and cured meats.
Fun Facts & Cultural Notes
- Faenza is the birthplace of faience ceramics, exported across Renaissance Europe. Pairing a local Sangiovese with a ceramic goblet is a living cultural ritual.
- Every June, the Palio del Niballo jousting tournament in Faenza is celebrated with food, wine, and pageantry.
- Locals often describe these wines as “convivial”—made for sharing at the table, never for pretension.
Producer Spotlight
- Trerè Winery: Family-run, known for expressive Sangiovese-based reds.
- Podere La Berta: Produces elegant Trebbiano-based whites.
- Fattoria Zerbina (nearby): Recognized for innovation in Romagna wines.
Related Wines You Might Like
- Sangiovese di Romagna DOC
- Albana di Romagna DOCG
- Lambrusco di Sorbara DOC
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 Emilia Romagna.
