Table of Contents
What is Tuscia DOC? (Quick Answer)
Tuscia DOC (also known as Colli Etruschi Viterbesi) is a wine appellation established in 1996 in Lazio’s Viterbo province. Covering around 89 hectares, it produces a wide spectrum of wines—from crisp whites and structured reds to rosé, sparkling, and dessert wines. Its identity is deeply rooted in Etruscan heritage and volcanic terroir, with indigenous grapes like Grechetto, Procanico, Sangiovese, and Montepulciano shaping its personality.
Tuscia DOC Wine Types
Tuscia DOC is remarkably versatile, allowing for multiple wine styles:
- White wines (Bianco) – Grechetto, Procanico, Malvasia
- Red wines (Rosso) – Montepulciano, Sangiovese, Merlot
- Rosé wines (Rosato) – Fresh, floral, and delicate
- Sparkling wines (Frizzante) – Lightly effervescent, ideal aperitifs
- Sweet wines (Passito) – Dessert-friendly, from dried grapes
- New wine (Novello) – Young and fruit-driven, bottled early
History & Origins
Tuscia’s wine roots stretch back over 2,500 years to the Etruscans, who cultivated vines in the fertile volcanic soils around Lake Bolsena. Ancient amphorae and frescoes from this area show that wine wasn’t just a drink—it was a symbol of trade, ritual, and culture.
Fast forward to 1996: the modern Colli Etruschi Viterbesi DOC was formalized, later rebranded in many contexts as Tuscia DOC to highlight the broader cultural and historical region.
Where It’s Made: Geography & Terroir
Tuscia DOC wines hail from Viterbo province in northern Lazio, bordering Tuscany and Umbria. The terroir is defined by:
- Volcanic soils from ancient eruptions of Lake Bolsena’s crater
- Elevations ranging 200–500 meters, ideal for balanced ripening
- Lake Bolsena’s microclimate, moderating summer heat and extending hang time
- Mediterranean influences with cool nights preserving acidity
This combination gives Tuscia wines a signature balance of freshness, minerality, and depth.
The Grapes of Tuscia DOC
Tuscia DOC embraces both native and international grapes:
- Grechetto – Adds body and nutty complexity to whites
- Procanico (Trebbiano Toscano) – Brings freshness and structure
- Malvasia – Perfumed, floral character
- Sangiovese – The backbone of central Italy’s reds, structured and savory
- Montepulciano – Juicy, dark-fruited reds with soft tannins
- Merlot & Cabernet Sauvignon – International varieties, blending flexibility
Winemaking & DOC Regulations
The DOC permits still, sparkling, rosé, sweet, and novello wines. Regulations emphasize:
- White blends (minimum 50% Grechetto and/or Procanico)
- Red blends (minimum 50% Montepulciano and/or Sangiovese)
- Yield controls to ensure concentration
- Alcohol minimums: ~11–12% depending on style
Key Facts at a Glance
- Established: 1996
- Region: Lazio, Province of Viterbo
- Primary Grapes: Grechetto, Procanico, Malvasia, Montepulciano, Sangiovese
- Wine Styles: White, Red, Rosé, Sparkling, Sweet, Novello
- Vineyard Area: ~89 hectares
- Terroir: Volcanic soils, Lake Bolsena influence
Tasting Notes
- Tuscia DOC Whites: Bright, mineral-driven, orchard fruit, almond finish
- Tuscia DOC Reds: Medium-bodied, cherry, plum, earthy spice, silky tannins
- Rosato: Crisp, strawberry, rose petal, refreshing acidity
- Passito: Honeyed apricot, dried fig, lush sweetness balanced by acidity
Serving & Pairing
Tuscia DOC’s diversity makes it a food lover’s dream:
- Whites: Pair with lake fish, Roman-style artichokes, pecorino
- Reds: Ideal with porchetta, wild boar ragù, grilled lamb
- Rosato: Excellent with cured meats and fresh mozzarella
- Passito: Perfect with almond biscotti or hazelnut desserts from northern Lazio
Where to Buy & Pricing
Tuscia DOC wines are produced on a small scale, making them a treasure for adventurous drinkers. Bottles generally retail between €8–15 in Italy and $15–25 internationally. Look for them in specialty Italian wine shops or online retailers specializing in Lazio wines.
Best Tuscia DOC Wineries to Visit
- Cantina di Montefiascone – Famous for both Tuscia and Est! Est!! Est!!! wines
- Azienda Agricola Trebotti – Organic and experimental producers
- Falesco (Famiglia Cotarella) – A regional powerhouse elevating Lazio wines
Tuscia DOC vs Other Lazio Wines
Compared to Frascati DOC near Rome, Tuscia wines are more volcanic and mineral-driven. Against Est! Est!! Est!!! di Montefiascone DOC, Tuscia shows greater stylistic diversity and higher aging potential.
FAQ on Tuscia DOC
- Q: How do you pronounce Colli Etruschi Viterbesi?
A: “KOH-lee eh-TROO-skee vee-TER-beh-see.” - Q: Is Tuscia DOC the same as Colli Etruschi Viterbesi DOC?
A: Yes—Tuscia is the broader cultural name; Colli Etruschi Viterbesi is the formal DOC designation. - Q: What makes Tuscia wines unique?
A: Volcanic soils, Etruscan heritage, and indigenous grapes that reflect Lazio’s identity.
Fun Facts & Cultural Notes
- The name Tuscia was the medieval Latin word for “Etruria”—the land of the Etruscans.
- Lake Bolsena is Europe’s largest volcanic lake, and its crater slopes are carpeted with vineyards.
- Tuscia’s wines are often poured during local sagre (food festivals), celebrating chestnuts, hazelnuts, and olive oil.
Have you ever tasted a wine from Tuscia DOC? Share your experience in the comments—or tag us on Instagram @DrinkItalian with your favorite Tuscia pairing. Want insider guides to Italy’s lesser-known DOCs? Subscribe to our newsletter and join the Drink Italian community of culturally curious wine lovers.
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
cheers@drinkitalian.com
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 Lazio.
