Calabria: Italy’s Untamed Southern Gem
Calabria: Italy’s Untamed Southern Gem
When people ask me about Calabria, I always smile. This is a region that’s not just beautiful—it’s alive with flavor, history, and soul. Tucked away in the very toe of Italy’s boot, Calabria is surrounded by two seas—the Tyrrhenian on one side, the Ionian on the other—and blessed with sunshine that makes the land, the people, and the food glow.
And for me, Calabria isn’t just another Italian region—it’s part of my family story. On my mom’s side, we come from Calabria, so I grew up with its flavors, traditions, and yes… the famous Calabrian stubbornness. In Italy, there’s a stereotype that people from Calabria are very stubborn. I can confirm—there’s a little truth to that. But that same determination is why Calabrians have preserved their culture so fiercely.
Why Calabria Feels Different
Calabria isn’t the Italy you see in postcards filled with crowded piazzas and tourist-packed streets. This is a place where life moves slower, traditions are still respected, and everyone has time for a proper conversation. You’ll see grandmothers rolling pasta by hand, fishermen repairing their nets along the coast, and neighbors chatting in the shade as if they’ve known each other forever—because they have.
The “Mexico of Italy”
At Above Wines, I like to joke that Calabria is the Mexico of Italy—and not for the reasons you might first imagine. It’s because of the region’s love for spice! Calabria is famous for its fiery red peppers, and I promise you, they show up in just about everything. If you’ve eaten at Italian restaurants in the U.S., you’ve probably seen “Calabrian chili peppers” on the menu—yes, they really come from here! They give a bold, lively kick to pasta sauces, seafood, and of course, the beloved ‘nduja, a spreadable, chili-rich salami that’s become a star on both sides of the Atlantic.
A Land of Contrasts
One of the things I love most about Calabria is how it can surprise you in a single day. You can wake up in the cool mountain air of the Sila or Aspromonte ranges, take a long hike through pine forests, and by the afternoon, be swimming in crystal-clear water at a beach that feels like your own private paradise. The coastline stretches for over 500 miles, yet many spots remain blissfully untouched.
The Taste of Calabria
If you know me, you know I believe food is the best way to understand a culture—and Calabria tells its story through bold flavors. The olive oil here is intense and peppery. The citrus is bursting with sweetness. The seafood tastes like it was caught just for you (because it probably was). And the pasta? Try fileja, a hand-rolled noodle often served with rich meat or pork sauces—it’s rustic, comforting, and unforgettable.
A Region Steeped in History
Calabria’s roots go deep. The ancient Greeks settled here long before Rome rose to power, and you can still feel their presence in archaeological sites like Locri, or when standing in front of the Riace Bronzes—two breathtaking Greek warrior statues pulled from the sea in 1972. Over the centuries, Romans, Byzantines, Normans, and Spanish rulers all left their mark, creating a culture that’s as layered as it is proud.
The Wines of Calabria
Of course, I can’t talk about Calabria without talking about its wines. This is a land where vineyards thrive under the southern sun, kissed by sea breezes, and nurtured by volcanic soils.
Gaglioppo – The pride of Calabria. A red grape that gives you flavors of ripe cherries, spice, and a rustic elegance. I often compare it to Nebbiolo for its aging potential.
Magliocco – Dark, bold, and earthy, this is a wine for those who love depth and character.
Greco Bianco – Crisp, aromatic, and perfect with seafood or a sunny afternoon by the water.
Cirò DOC – The most famous Calabrian appellation, delivering structured reds and fresh whites that fit any table.
Crete del Falco Blend – A bold Calabrian red crafted from Gaglioppo and Magliocco, this wine bursts with ripe cherry, blackberry, and warm spice. Velvety on the palate with a lingering finish, it’s the perfect match for rich pasta dishes, grilled meats, or an evening of good conversation.
Calabrian wines may still be a hidden treasure in the U.S., but once you taste them, you’ll understand why they’ve been cherished here for centuries. They’re honest, full of personality, and just like Calabria itself—they leave a lasting impression.
