Terre Bianche: The Heritage of Ligurian Wine
Founded in 1870 by Tommaso Rondelli, Terre Bianche is a historic family-run estate situated in the Val Nervia hills, near the medieval town of Dolceacqua in Liguria. Over its long history, the estate has grown to encompass 10 hectares of vineyards, with a focus on cultivating indigenous grape varieties like Rossese di Dolceacqua, Pigato, and Vermentino. The estate’s name, meaning “white lands,” comes from the unique white clay soils found in the region, which, along with blue marl and red clay, contribute to the distinctive mineral character of the wines.
Terroir and Vineyard Practices
The vineyards at Terre Bianche are located on steep, rocky terraces, an example of extreme viticulture that combines mountain and sea influences. The unique blend of Mediterranean climate and varied soils provides ideal conditions for growing high-quality grapes with vibrant acidity and minerality. The estate uses organic farming methods, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and respect for the natural environment.
Winemaking Philosophy
The wines of Terre Bianche are produced with a minimal intervention approach. Fermentation typically takes place in stainless steel tanks, with the aim of preserving the natural aromas and freshness of the grapes. For their single-vineyard wines, subtle oak aging is applied to enhance complexity without overpowering the delicate characteristics of the wine. The result is a range of tangy, aromatic wines that express both the terroir and the heritage of the region.
notable Wines
- Rossese di Dolceacqua DOC: A fragrant, light-bodied red wine made from the native Rossese grape (known as Tibouren in France), offering fresh red fruit flavors, floral notes, and a lively finish.
- Pigato: This indigenous white variety, closely related to Vermentino, produces wines with citrus, stone fruit, and herbaceous qualities, perfect for pairing with Ligurian seafood.
- Vermentino: Known for its crisp acidity and minerality, Vermentino from Terre Bianche reflects the maritime influence of the region, with fresh and saline notes.
Under the leadership of Filippo Rondelli, who took over from his father Claudio, Terre Bianche continues to push the quality of Ligurian wines, producing some of Italy’s most authentic and refined expressions of local varieties.
Read Michaela Morris’ article for Quench Magazine
