Candia dei Colli Apuani

The Protected Designation of Origin "Candia dei Colli Apuani" includes a wide range of wines: white, sparkling white (both dry and sweet), white Vendemmia tardiva, Vin Santo, white Vermentino, red, rosé, black Vermentino, rosé Vermentino nero and Barsaglina (also called Massaretta).

Grapes

White wines are made with a minimum of 70% Vermentino grapes. Percentage that rises to 85% in Vermentino bianco. Red and rosé, on the other hand, have a share of Sangiovese (from 60% to 80%) and one of Merlot (maximum 20%). Vermentino nero wines (red and rosé), on the other hand, have 85% Vermentino. Finally, the Barsaglina or Massaretta are produced with 85% of grapes from the Bersaglina grape variety. In all types, for the remaining part, may contribute other grapes from berry varieties of similar color, as long as suitable for cultivation in Tuscany.

Physicochemical and Organoleptic properties

The white wines of the "Candia dei Colli Albani" denomination are extremely balanced, with a modest acidity content and a straw yellow colour that can have different intensity levels. The taste and the perfume give back typical notes of Vermentino, like the light bitter aftertaste. Vermentino nero and Barsaglina, on the other hand, appear as light wines but with a strong colour and good structure. The concentration of fruit is considerable and releases a hint of undergrowth, leather, cinnamon and spice. For all types, the alcohol content is 11.5% vol., except for Vin Santo (16.50% vol.) and the white late harvest (14.5% vol.).

Grape production area

The production area, concentrated in the municipalities of Carrara, Massa and Montignoso, has very specific environmental characteristics compared to the nearby Apuan Alps. In addition, the rainfall is significantly higher than in the rest of the region.

Specificity and historical notes

The particular conditions of the area make it difficult to prepare the land for new plantings of vines. For this reason, most of the plants are over 40 years old.