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What is Colli Martani DOC? (Quick Answer)
Colli Martani DOC is an Umbrian wine appellation established in 1988, covering hillside vineyards between 150–600 meters south of Perugia. It produces Sangiovese-based reds (minimum 50%), fresh Trebbiano and Grechetto whites, sparkling Spumante, and distinctive Vernaccia Nera dessert wines grown on limestone and volcanic clay soils.
History and Origins
The Colli Martani DOC embodies Umbria’s understated elegance. Officially recognized in 1988, the appellation celebrates centuries of viticulture around the Martani hills. Romans cultivated vines here, while medieval monasteries preserved Grechetto and Sangiovese. Today, Colli Martani remains a vital part of the Umbrian wine guide, balancing tradition with modern enology.
Where It’s Made: Geography & Terroir
The appellation lies in central Umbria, stretching from Montefalco’s Sagrantino vineyards northward toward Perugia. The terroir is a mosaic of clay, limestone, and volcanic soils that shape wines of freshness and minerality. Vineyards sit between 150–600 meters, benefiting from diurnal shifts that preserve acidity and aromatic complexity.
Wine travelers can reach Colli Martani by car in about 2 hours from Rome or 2.5 hours from Florence. The area pairs easily with cultural visits to Spoleto, Montefalco, and Assisi, making it ideal for wine tourism itineraries.
The Grape (or Blend)
- Reds: Predominantly Sangiovese (min. 50%), blended with Montepulciano, Merlot, or Cabernet Sauvignon.
- Whites: Trebbiano Toscano and Grechetto lead the way, with Verdicchio and Chardonnay sometimes present.
- Specialty wines: Spumante (sparkling) and the rare Vernaccia Nera dessert wine, known for its sweet-spiced character.
Winemaking & DOC Regulations
- Red wines: Sangiovese-based, aged to highlight freshness and balance.
- Whites: Crisp, refreshing, often unoaked but some richer Grechetto versions see partial barrel aging.
- Spumante: Charmat and traditional method sparkling wines.
- Vernaccia Nera dessert wine: Produced from late-harvested grapes, offering aromas of dried fruits and baking spices.
Key Facts at a Glance
- Region: Umbria, Italy
- Established: 1988
- Elevation: 150–600 m
- Soils: Limestone, clay, volcanic
- Red wines: Sangiovese minimum 50%
- White wines: Trebbiano Toscano, Grechetto
- Specialties: Spumante, Vernaccia Nera dessert wine
Tasting Notes
- Reds (Sangiovese blends): Bright cherry, violet, tobacco leaf, balanced acidity.
- Whites (Grechetto & Trebbiano): Crisp green apple, citrus, almond finish.
- Spumante: Elegant mousse, floral aromas, refreshing citrus notes.
- Vernaccia Nera dessert wine: Dried fig, cinnamon, nutmeg, sweet yet structured.
Serving & Pairing
- Grechetto whites: Pair beautifully with Umbrian truffle pasta or pecorino cheese.
- Sangiovese reds: Excellent with porchetta, wild boar ragù, or lentil stews.
- Spumante: Perfect for aperitivo, fried snacks, or fresh seafood.
- Vernaccia Nera: Best with biscotti, aged cheeses, or even dark chocolate desserts.
Where to Buy & Pricing
- Pricing: Bottles generally range from €12–€25, with Spumante and dessert wines slightly higher.
- Availability: Found via Italian wine retailers, specialty wine shops, and online merchants like Wine.com, Eataly Vino, and Vivino.
- Restaurant Lists: Look for Colli Martani wines at Italian trattorie in New York, London, and Toronto.
- Wine Clubs: Grechetto-based whites increasingly appear in curated Italian wine subscription boxes.
Best Colli Martani Wineries to Visit
- Cantina Tudernum – Known for Grechetto and Sangiovese.
- Di Filippo – Organic pioneers of the region.
- La Veneranda – Family-run estate offering Vernaccia Nera dessert wines.
Colli Martani vs Montefalco
While Montefalco is famous for bold Sagrantino, Colli Martani emphasizes elegance and versatility: lighter Sangiovese, refreshing whites, and sparkling wines. Together, they showcase the dual soul of Umbria.
FAQ on Colli Martani DOC
- What does Colli Martani wine taste like?
Fresh, fruit-driven, and mineral-driven, with reds leaning toward cherry and spice, whites toward citrus and almond. - Is Colli Martani wine expensive?
Not at all—most bottles range from €12–€25, offering excellent value. - What food pairs with Grechetto wine?
Seafood, white meats, truffle pasta, and aged cheeses. - How is Vernaccia Nera different from regular Vernaccia?
It is a distinct grape, used in dessert wines, with spicy-sweet flavors unlike Vernaccia di San Gimignano. - When is the best time to visit Colli Martani wineries?
Harvest season (September–October) or spring (May–June) for festivals and mild weather.
Fun Facts & Cultural Notes
- Umbrian Wine Festivals: Don’t miss Cantine Aperte in May, when wineries open doors to the public.
- Ancient Roots: Roman mosaics depict wine feasts from these very hills.
- Local Cuisine: Colli Martani wines often appear alongside Norcineria cured meats and truffle dishes.
- Instagram-worthy Views: Vineyards with medieval hilltop towns in the backdrop.
Join the Colli Martani Discovery Journey
🍷 Wine Enthusiasts, This is Your Moment
- Download our free Umbrian Wine Tourism Guide
- Join virtual tastings with Colli Martani winemakers
- Access limited DOC releases before they sell out
- Share your tasting notes with our global wine community
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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.
