IGT Terre di Chieti I.G.T. wines awarded at the Gilbert & Gaillard International Challenge

Indicazione geografica tipica

The Terre di Chieti indicazione geografica tipica covers the entire administrative territory of the province of Chieti, in Abruzzo, along a hilly coastal strip stretching from the Foro river to the Trigno. The soils are predominantly clay on the hillsides, complemented by alluvial plains shaped by the rivers that cross the province. The proximity of the Maiella massif brings wide temperature swings between day and night, while strong ventilation helps keep the grapes healthy. The province of Chieti accounts for more than 80% of Abruzzo's wine production, making it the region's leading wine-producing area. The designation allows a very broad range of grape varieties, whites such as pecorino, cococciola, passerina, trebbiano, chardonnay and pinot grigio, and reds such as aglianico, merlot, cabernet sauvignon, sangiovese, primitivo and syrah.

The wines of this appellation

Terre di Chieti produces white, red and rosé wines, also made in sparkling versions, as novello reds and rosés, and as passito whites and reds. Varietal wines, which must contain at least 85% of the stated grape, express the character of varieties as diverse as pecorino, cococciola, chardonnay and pinot grigio for the whites, and aglianico, merlot, cabernet sauvignon, sangiovese, primitivo and syrah for the reds. The whites show a straw-yellow colour with floral and fruity notes, best enjoyed young to preserve their freshness. The reds, ruby in colour, range from easy-drinking novellos to a firmer structure in longer-aged varietal wines. The rosés, of variable colour intensity, are marked by freshness and aromatic character. Depending on colour and style, these wines pair with anything from aperitifs and antipasti to seafood pasta, grilled meats or semi-aged cheeses.