Cirò DOC

Cirò DOC is a Denominazione di origine controllata (DOC) wine designation for red and rosé wines made from the Gaglioppo grape and white wines made from the Greco bianco grape in the Calabria region of southern Italy. The DOC was established in 1969 and covers vineyards in the eastern foothills of the La Sila region, extending to the Ionian Sea.

History

The history of Cirò DOC dates back to ancient times. The wine was reportedly served to winners of the ancient Olympic Games. The region has a long history of wine production, with the Greeks introducing viticulture to the area as early as the 8th century BC.

Production

Cirò DOC wines are produced in a specific geographical area in the province of Crotone. The production area includes the territories of several municipalities. The vineyards are typically located on hillsides at altitudes of 50 to 600 meters above sea level.

The main grape variety used in the production of Cirò DOC is Gaglioppo for red and rosé wines, and Greco bianco for white wines. The wines are known for their robust character and strong tannins in the case of reds, and for their aromatic and fresh profile in the case of whites.

Styles

Cirò DOC includes several styles of wine:

• Cirò Rosso: Made primarily from Gaglioppo, these wines are known for their ruby red color, intense aroma, and full-bodied taste.
• Cirò Rosato: These rosé wines are also made from Gaglioppo and are characterized by their delicate pink color and fresh, fruity aroma.
• Cirò Bianco: Made from Greco bianco, these wines are straw yellow in color with a delicate, fruity aroma and a dry, harmonious taste.

Aging

Cirò DOC wines have different aging requirements depending on the style. Cirò Rosso, for example, must be aged for a minimum of two years, with at least one year in wood. Cirò Bianco and Cirò Rosato do not have specific aging requirements.

Pairing

Cirò DOC wines pair well with a variety of foods. Cirò Rosso pairs well with red meat, game, and aged cheeses. Cirò Rosato is excellent with fish, white meats, and fresh cheeses. Cirò Bianco pairs well with seafood, poultry, and light pasta dishes.