Candia dei Colli Apuani

About the wine

Candia dei Colli Apuani is a distinctive DOC located in the northernmost tip of Tuscany, bordering Liguria. The appellation is defined by its dramatic, steep, terraced vineyards carved into the hillsides of Massa, Carrara, and Montignoso. This challenging terrain, characterized by high rainfall and complex soil structures, necessitates labor-intensive viticulture, often involving manual labor and traditional dry-stone wall maintenance. The wines are primarily centered on Vermentino Bianco, which produces aromatic, fresh, and mineral-driven whites, often with a characteristic savory finish. The DOC also champions unique local varieties like Vermentino Nero and Barsaglina (Massaretta), which yield structured, ruby-hued reds. The production includes diverse styles ranging from dry and sparkling whites to late-harvest wines and the traditional, long-aged Vin Santo. These wines reflect a unique microclimate that bridges the gap between the Apuan Alps and the Mediterranean coast, resulting in a profile that is distinctly different from the Sangiovese-dominated wines of central Tuscany.

Grape varieties

Production & aging

The production zone is located in the province of Massa-Carrara, specifically covering the hilly areas within the communes of Carrara, Massa, and Montignoso. The vineyards are situated on slopes with calcareous-clay or siliceous-clay soils, excluding valley floors, and are characterized by traditional terracing and steep gradients that require specific manual viticultural practices.