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What is Cori DOC?
Cori DOC is a small yet remarkable wine denomination in the Lazio wine region, just 40 km southeast of Rome. Established in 1971, it produces both red and white wines that reflect volcanic soils, native Italian grapes, and Roman wine traditions. This hidden gem showcases wines few outsiders know: mineral-driven Bellone whites and earthy, structured reds built on Nero Buono, Lazio’s rare heritage grape
Roman History and Ancient Origins
The hilltop town of Cori, once known as Cora, predates Rome itself. Vines have thrived here for over 2,000 years, nourished by volcanic soils and Mediterranean breezes. The DOC recognition in 1971 formalized centuries of tradition, giving voice to indigenous varieties that had nearly vanished during Italy’s industrial wine era.
Wine Culture in Ancient Rome’s Backyard
Cori’s vineyards occupy the same slopes where Roman legions once marched and farmers tended vines for the empire’s capital. Today’s producers see themselves as stewards of a living archaeological terroir—continuing traditions that may stretch back to antiquity. To sip Cori DOC is to taste wine culture that has survived empires, wars, and changing fashions.
Monti Lepini Geography and Volcanic Terroir
The Monti Lepini hills, in the province of Latina, form Cori’s viticultural backbone.
- Altitude: 300–500 meters
- Soils: Volcanic with limestone and clay pockets
- Climate: Mediterranean, with cooling breezes and dramatic day-night temperature swings
This terroir ensures freshness in whites and balance in reds—perfect for modern palates seeking volcanic soil Italian wines.
Native Grape Varieties and Blends
White Wines: Bellone and Regional Blends
- Cori Bianco: Minimum 50% Bellone, with Malvasia di Candia, Greco Bianco, and other local whites.
- Bellone varietal: At least 85% Bellone. Known locally as uva pane (“bread grape”), Bellone is prized for its golden hue, ripe citrus aromas, and mineral backbone.
Red Wines: Nero Buono and Mountain Reds
- Cori Rosso: At least 50% Nero Buono, with Montepulciano and Cesanese di Affile.
- Nero Buono varietal & Riserva: At least 85% Nero Buono. A grape native only to this part of Lazio, it produces elegant, spice-driven wines with wild cherry and earthy depth.
DOC Regulations and Winemaking Standards
- Alcohol Minimums: 11% (Bianco), 11.5% (Rosso), 12% (varietal), 13% (Riserva)
- Aging: Nero Buono Riserva must age at least 2 years before release.
- Style: Dry, food-friendly wines, made for Roman cuisine pairings rather than international styles.
Tasting Notes and Wine Characteristics
- Bellone Bianco: Pale straw, citrus, chamomile, saline minerality. Crisp yet textured.
- Cori Rosso: Ruby red, cherry, violet, and herbs. Medium-bodied, gentle tannins, volcanic lift.
- Nero Buono Riserva: Deeper ruby, black cherry, spice, earth. Structured yet elegant, ideal for aging.
Food Pairing with Roman Cuisine
Cori wines evolved with Lazio’s rustic kitchen traditions.
- Bellone Bianco: Perfect with cacio e pepe, fried artichokes (carciofi alla giudia), or seafood pastas.
- Cori Rosso: Matches roasted lamb, saltimbocca alla romana, or amatriciana.
- Nero Buono Riserva: Pairs beautifully with wild boar stew or pecorino-aged dishes.
Pro Tip: Serve whites at 10–12°C and reds at 16–18°C.
Visiting Cori: Wine and Ancient History Combined
Just 40 km from Rome, Cori is an ideal day trip wine destination. Visitors can tour Roman temples (like the Temple of Hercules), stroll medieval alleys, and then enjoy tastings in family-run wineries. The town offers a quieter, more authentic experience compared to better-known Castelli Romani wine tours.
Perfect for: Rome-based wine lovers seeking a cultural escape
Combine with: Wine tours in nearby Castelli Romani DOC
Notable Cori DOC Producers
Production is small and artisanal, with a focus on family traditions:
- Cincinnato Cooperative: Champions Nero Buono and Bellone, sustainable vineyard practices.
- Pietra Pinta: Known for elegant Bellone whites.
- Marco Carpineti: Biodynamic producer highlighting native grapes in expressive, terroir-driven styles.
How Cori Differs from Other Lazio Wines
While Frascati DOC focuses on Trebbiano and Malvasia, Cori emphasizes Bellone and Nero Buono—grapes almost exclusive to this zone. Compared to the broad Castelli Romani DOC, Cori wines are rarer, more terroir-specific, and often more age-worthy.
Why Cori Wines Are Worth Seeking
Cori DOC remains one of Italy’s best-kept secrets:
- Native grapes you won’t taste anywhere else
- Limited production, mostly consumed locally
- Excellent value: €15–20 for Rosso, €25–30 for Riserva Nero Buono
For collectors and adventurous drinkers, Cori offers rare Italian red wines with investment-worthy character.
Where to Buy These Rare Wines
- Online: Wine-Searcher Cori DOC
- In Rome: Available in enotecas and trattorias specializing in regional cuisine
- Export Markets: Limited but growing—seek out Lazio-focused importers in the US and UK
FAQ About Cori DOC
- Q: Can you visit Cori wineries from Rome?
A: Yes, Cori is just 40 km away—perfect for a day trip combining wine and archaeology. - Q: What makes Bellone unique?
A: It’s a native grape found almost only in Lazio, offering citrus-mineral freshness unlike Trebbiano or Malvasia. - Q: How much do Cori wines cost?
A: Bianco and Rosso are typically under €20; Riservas can reach €30–40. - Q: Are Cori wines served in Rome restaurants?
A: Increasingly yes—especially trattorias celebrating regional food culture. - Q: When is harvest season?
A: September to early October in the Monti Lepini hills.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Feature | Detail |
| DOC Established | 1971 |
| Region | Lazio (Latina province) |
| Main Grapes | Bellone (white), Nero Buono (red) |
| Altitude | 300–500 m |
| Styles | Bianco, Rosso, Bellone, Nero Buono (Riserva) |
| Best Pairings | Roman cuisine classics |
| Tourism | 40 km from Rome, archaeological sites + wine |
Fun Facts & Cultural Notes
- Pronunciation: “CO-ri” DOC
- Local nickname: Bellone is called uva pane (“bread grape”), reflecting its ancient role as everyday nourishment.
- Harvest traditions: Local families still celebrate with community feasts in September.
- Revival story: Nero Buono was nearly extinct until Cori’s winemakers revived it in the late 20th century.
Have you tasted Cori DOC wines? Share your story with us in the comments—or tag @DrinkItalian in your Lazio wine adventures. For more hidden gems of Central Italy’s wine regions, subscribe to our newsletter and join our 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
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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 Lazio.
