From Gaglioppo to Greco: Exploring Calabria Through Its Indigenous Grapes
“A journey through Calabria’s rare indigenous varieties and the landscapes that bring them to life.”
Tucked into the “toe” of Italy’s boot, Calabria is a region where sun-drenched coastlines, dramatic mountains, and centuries of winemaking tradition come together to create one of Italy’s most authentic and untouched wine experiences. While visitors often come for the beaches and ancient towns, those who venture inland discover something even more memorable: wines made from grapes that grow nowhere else on earth.
A Terroir Between Two Seas
Calabria is blessed with a warm Mediterranean climate, tempered by the breezes of both the Tyrrhenian and Ionian coasts. These two winegrowing areas give the region its distinctive personality:
Tyrrhenian Coast → Famous for crisp, refreshing whites made from Greco Bianco, with high acidity and lively citrus-fruit character. These wines perfectly match the seafood served along Calabria’s western shores.
Ionian Coast → Home to bold, robust reds from Gaglioppo and Magliocco, known for their deep tannins, spice, and long aging potential. These wines embody the power of Calabria’s sun and rocky soils.
Rare Grapes, Ancient Roots
Calabria’s strength lies in its native grape varieties, many of which have been preserved for centuries:
Gaglioppo → The star of the region and the backbone of the renowned Cirò DOC. This red produces structured, full-bodied wines with notes of cherry, herbs, and earthy spice.
Magliocco → Often blended but increasingly bottled on its own, Magliocco wines are dark, complex, and aromatic, with layers of black fruit and licorice. Lamezia DOC is one of its best expressions.
Greco Bianco → A bright, mineral-driven white with citrus and stone-fruit notes, thriving on the Tyrrhenian coast.
Mantonico Bianco → A lesser-known gem, capable of both crisp whites and luscious passito-style dessert wines.
These grapes are tied not just to the land, but to Calabria’s cultural identity — wines that are rustic yet refined, bold yet soulful.
Cities Where Wine Meets History
Exploring Calabria means discovering its wines alongside its towns and cities, where history and culture intertwine with every glass:
Cosenza → A cultural hub with a rich medieval heart. Don’t miss the Calabria Wine Museum, where the region’s winemaking traditions are celebrated.
Cirò → The beating heart of Calabrian wine. Here, Gaglioppo reigns supreme in Cirò DOC. Visitors can taste powerful reds at local estates while exploring ancient Greek ruins nearby.
Squillace → Known for its old town and golden beaches. Visit nearby wineries for Magliocco reds and Greco-based whites.
Catanzaro → Calabria’s capital, where history, architecture, and a growing wine scene come together.
Crotone → Once home to ancient Greek colonies, today it pairs archaeological wonders like the Temple of Hera Lacinia with tastings of local Magliocco-based wines.
Beyond the Glass: Unique Places to Visit
Calabria’s wine journey is enriched by its landscapes and heritage sites:
La Strada del Vino → A wine road weaving through vineyards and villages, connecting visitors with small family-run wineries.
Sila & Aspromonte National Parks → Mountain escapes offering fresh air, hiking, and rustic food to pair with local wines.
Pollino National Park → Italy’s largest national park, blending dramatic landscapes with indigenous grape plantings.
Gerace → A medieval gem with cobbled streets and a cathedral, perfect for pairing a glass of Greco Bianco with sweeping views.
Grotta del Romito → A prehistoric cave showcasing Calabria’s deep history, making wine tasting here feel like a journey back in time.
A Region on the Rise
In recent years, Calabria has seen a renaissance of small, family-run wineries dedicated to reviving traditional grapes and methods. These passionate producers are not only preserving heritage but also putting Calabria on the global wine map.
For travelers seeking an authentic Italian adventure, Calabria offers a rare combination: unspoiled landscapes, historic towns, and wines that carry the taste of thousands of years of tradition. From sipping Gaglioppo in Cirò to enjoying Greco Bianco by the Tyrrhenian coast, every glass tells the story of this land at the crossroads of history and culture.
