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Introduction: Liguria’s Coastal Vineyard Poetry
Nestled just beyond the rugged cliffs of Cinque Terre, the Colline di Levanto DOC represents one of Liguria’s most enchanting yet overlooked wine regions. With only about 5,800 cases produced annually, these small-production wines embody the coastal poetry of terraced vineyards, salty sea breezes, and artisan winemaking traditions that thrive in harmony with nature.
Often overshadowed by its famous neighbor Cinque Terre DOC, Colline di Levanto offers travelers and wine lovers a more intimate journey into Ligurian viticulture, where Vermentino, Albarola, and Sangiovese-based blends showcase both maritime freshness and rustic elegance.
What Makes Colline di Levanto DOC Unique?
- Microclimate: Influenced by Mediterranean breezes and steep terraced slopes.
- Grapes: Whites led by Vermentino and Albarola; reds blending Sangiovese with Ciliegiolo.
- Style: Fresh, mineral-driven whites and light, aromatic reds perfect for seafood pairings.
- Production: Limited quantities, ensuring artisanal quality and rarity.
Levanto vs. Cinque Terre: A Wine Lover’s Comparison
While Cinque Terre wines have gained international fame, Colline di Levanto DOC offers a more affordable, equally compelling alternative:
- Price: Levanto wines average €15–€25, compared to Cinque Terre’s often higher tourist-driven prices.
- Style: Both highlight Vermentino, but Levanto’s whites are often rounder and more floral, while Cinque Terre emphasizes saline minerality.
- Tourism: Cinque Terre vineyards can feel crowded, while Levanto provides quieter, more personal tasting experiences.
- Food Pairing: Levanto wines are perfectly matched with pesto alla Genovese, anchovies, and focaccia from La Spezia.
✅ Tip for travelers: If you’re visiting Cinque Terre, add Levanto to your itinerary for a more authentic, less touristy wine discovery.
Best Levanto Wineries to Visit
If you’re planning a wine trip, these producers are worth seeking out:
- Cantina Sassarini – Historic winery producing Vermentino-driven whites with elegance.
- Ottaviano Lambruschi – Revered for artisanal production and traditional Ligurian winemaking.
- Cooperative Cantina Levanto – Community-driven production with authentic, approachable wines.
Many of these producers welcome visitors for tastings—advance booking is recommended.
Planning Your Levanto Wine Tourism Trip
Wine and travel are inseparable in Levanto, where vineyards tumble into the sea and villages welcome travelers with coastal charm.
- Best Time to Visit: May–June and September–October, when vineyards are vibrant but tourist crowds are fewer.
- Wine Tours: Combine tastings with hiking trails through terraced vineyards.
- Where to Stay: Agriturismi in the hills of Levanto or boutique hotels near the coast.
- Food Pairing Experiences: Try local pesto with Trofie pasta, Ligurian seafood stews, or focaccia with olives alongside Levanto Vermentino.
Ligurian Wine and Food Pairing Guide
- Levanto Vermentino & Anchovies al verde – Salty freshness meets herbal vibrancy.
- Sangiovese-Ciliegiolo blends & Ligurian rabbit (coniglio alla ligure) – Rustic and aromatic pairing.
- Albarola blends & Pesto alla Genovese – Herbal intensity matched with bright acidity.
Seasonal Guide: When to Drink and Visit Levanto Wines
- Spring: Crisp young Vermentino ideal for seafood picnics.
- Summer: Whites shine with beachside meals.
- Autumn: Harvest season brings festivals and fresh red blends.
- Winter: Cellar tastings highlight the warming side of Sangiovese-based reds.
FAQ: Colline di Levanto DOC
- How do Levanto wines compare to Cinque Terre?
Levanto wines are softer and more floral, while Cinque Terre wines tend to be more mineral and saline. - Can you visit wineries in Levanto?
Yes, though visits are often by appointment, ensuring a personal experience. - What’s the best time to visit Levanto for wine?
Late spring and early autumn offer the best balance of weather and fewer crowds. - Where can I buy Levanto wines online?
Specialist Italian retailers and some international sites like Wine-Searcher list them. - How much do Levanto wines cost compared to Cinque Terre?
Levanto averages €15–€25, generally less expensive than Cinque Terre wines. - What food pairs best with Levanto wines?
Seafood, pesto, focaccia, and Ligurian vegetable-based dishes.
Planning a Ligurian coast wine adventure? Discover the hidden gems of Colline di Levanto DOC and share your experiences with #DrinkItalian to inspire fellow coastal 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 Liguria.
