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What is Collina Torinese DOC?
Collina Torinese DOC is one of Piedmont’s most boutique wine denominations, encompassing a patchwork of sun-kissed hills east of Turin. It’s a landscape where historic villages, medieval churches, and family-run vineyards coexist, producing small-batch wines with a deep sense of place. While Barbera remains the backbone, this DOC also safeguards rare local grapes like Pelaverga Cari and Malvasia di Schierano—varieties that feel like a whispered secret between winemaker and drinker.
History and Origins
The Collina Torinese area has been under vine since Roman times, with viticulture thriving thanks to its proximity to Turin, a historic hub for trade and nobility. While many Piedmont wines achieved fame early on, Collina Torinese’s wines stayed local, enjoyed primarily by Turin’s citizens and only more recently reaching a broader audience. The DOC was officially established in 1994 to preserve both the region’s traditional grapes and its artisanal winemaking practices.
Where It’s Made: Geography & Terroir
The Collina Torinese DOC extends over the rolling hills east and southeast of Turin, including communes like Chieri, Andezeno, and Montaldo Torinese.
- Elevation: 200–400 meters above sea level
- Soils: Calcareous clay with sandy layers—ideal for aromatic reds and balanced acidity
- Climate: Continental with marked diurnal temperature swings, ensuring both ripeness and freshness in the grapes
These gentle slopes not only catch generous sunlight but also benefit from breezes that help preserve grape health, giving wines an elegant, lifted profile.
The Grape (or Blend)
- Barbera: The workhorse grape, offering juicy red fruit, bright acidity, and soft tannins.
- Pelaverga Cari: An extremely rare, local variant distinct from Verduno Pelaverga, known for its peppery notes and floral elegance.
- Malvasia di Schierano: A fragrant, slightly aromatic grape used for dry and sweet styles.
Winemaking & DOC Regulations
DOC regulations permit both varietal and blended wines:
- Barbera-based Reds: Minimum 85% Barbera for varietal wines.
- Pelaverga Cari & Malvasia di Schierano: Allowed for varietal bottlings and blends.
- Aging: Typically 6 months minimum, with some producers extending to 12–18 months for complexity.
- Styles: Still reds, dry aromatic reds, and occasionally lightly sweet versions.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Feature | Detail |
| DOC Established | 1994 |
| Region | Piedmont, Italy |
| Primary Grapes | Barbera, Pelaverga Cari, Malvasia di Schierano |
| Average Altitude | 200–400 m |
| Production | Very limited; mostly local distribution |
| Notable Producers | Balbiano Winery, Cantina Terre dei Santi, Bava |
Tasting Notes
Collina Torinese DOC wines are vibrant and expressive:
- Color: Ruby to deep garnet
- Nose: Red cherry, violet, white pepper, and subtle herbs
- Palate: Medium-bodied, fresh acidity, and silky tannins; Pelaverga Cari brings spice and floral lift, while Barbera offers red fruit and juiciness.
Serving & Pairing
Serve at 16–18°C in a tulip-shaped glass.
Perfect with:
- Vitello tonnato
- Agnolotti del plin
- Salumi from the Turin hills
- Soft cheeses like Robiola di Roccaverano
Where to Buy & Pricing
Most bottles retail for €10–€18 in Italy, slightly higher abroad due to scarcity. Availability is best through Piedmont wine shops, specialty importers, or direct purchase from wineries.
Producer Directory
- Balbiano Winery – Known for both Pelaverga Cari and Malvasia di Schierano; open for tastings.
- Cantina Terre dei Santi – Cooperative winery with historical roots in Chieri.
- Bava – Family estate producing elegant, cellar-worthy Barbera blends.
Collina Torinese vs. Other Boutique DOCs
| DOC | Key Grape(s) | Distinction |
| Collina Torinese DOC | Barbera, Pelaverga Cari, Malvasia di Schierano | Rare grape preservation, Turin proximity |
| Verduno Pelaverga DOC | Pelaverga Piccolo | Spicier, lighter-bodied reds |
| Loazzolo DOC | Moscato Bianco | Tiny production sweet wines |
Wine Tourism Tips
- Festa dell’Uva (Chieri): Annual harvest festival with tastings, music, and food.
- Winery Tours: Many producers offer guided cellar visits and vineyard walks.
- Pair with Turin Tourism: Combine wine tasting with visits to Turin’s historic cafés and chocolate shops.
FAQ on Collina Torinese DOC
What makes Pelaverga Cari different from Verduno Pelaverga?
Pelaverga Cari is a distinct local clone, with a softer spice profile and more floral aromatics.
Is Malvasia di Schierano used in other DOCs?
Yes, it appears in nearby Malvasia di Castelnuovo Don Bosco DOC for sweet wines.
How long can Collina Torinese wines age?
Barbera blends can age 5–8 years; Pelaverga Cari styles are best enjoyed young to preserve aromatics.
Where can I taste these wines in Piedmont?
Visit Chieri, Andezeno, or Montaldo Torinese for winery tours and festivals.
Fun Facts & Cultural Notes
- Turin’s royal court historically favored wines from these hills.
- Pelaverga Cari was nearly extinct by the 1970s, saved by a handful of dedicated growers.
- The DOC’s name literally means “Turin Hills.”
CTA for Audience Engagement
💬 Have you tasted Collina Torinese DOC? Share your experience or favorite pairing in the comments below. Your story might inspire another wine lover’s next adventure in Piedmont.
