The Colline del Prosecco di Conegliano e Valdobbiadene

The Prosecco Hills

The Prosecco Hills of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene are one of the most famous and charming wine-growing areas in Italy, located in the Veneto region. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2019, these hills are renowned for producing Prosecco Superiore, a sparkling wine that has gained worldwide fame for its quality and distinctive taste. The landscape is characterized by terraced vineyards, picturesque villages, and a wine culture passed down through generations, making this region a symbol of winemaking excellence and natural beauty.

Geography and Landscape of the Prosecco Hills

The Prosecco hills stretch for about 30 kilometers between the towns of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene, in the province of Treviso. The landscape is shaped by a series of steep, terraced hills, providing ideal conditions for grape cultivation. The unique geography of the region, with its favorable microclimate and chalky soils, contributes to the production of high-quality grapes that give rise to Prosecco Superiore DOCG.

The hills feature a traditional rural landscape, with small vineyard plots interspersed with woods, pastures, and historic villages. This interaction between man and nature has created a unique cultural landscape that reflects the ancient winemaking tradition and the ability of local producers to adapt to environmental and social challenges. The beauty of the Prosecco hills is not only aesthetic but also represents a model of sustainable development that preserves the balance between agricultural activities and landscape conservation.

History and Culture of the Prosecco Hills

The history of viticulture in the hills of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene dates back centuries, with evidence of grape cultivation dating back to Roman times. However, it was in the 18th century that viticulture significantly developed, thanks to the introduction of new cultivation techniques and the selection of grape varieties suitable for the local climate and soil.

The winemaking culture of the Prosecco hills is deeply rooted in tradition, with local families passing down cultivation and production techniques from generation to generation. This cultural heritage is reflected in the care and dedication with which the vineyards are cultivated, using traditional methods that respect the environment and biodiversity. The local community is deeply connected to wine production, which represents an essential part of the economy and cultural identity of the region.

The Prosecco Hills: Main Areas

The Prosecco hills are divided into several areas, each with unique geographical and cultural characteristics. Below are some of the main areas of the region.

1. Conegliano

Conegliano is known as the "cradle of Prosecco" and is home to one of the oldest winemaking schools in Italy, the Cerletti Enological Institute.

• Winemaking Tradition: Conegliano is a center of excellence for training and research in viticulture and oenology. The Cerletti Enological Institute, founded in 1876, has contributed to the development of Prosecco production techniques and continues to train industry experts.
• Landscapes: The vineyards of Conegliano extend over gentle hills, creating a harmonious and picturesque landscape. Visitors can explore the wine roads, which offer breathtaking views and the opportunity to taste Prosecco directly from local producers.
• Culture: Conegliano is also famous for its history and culture, with historical landmarks such as the Conegliano Castle and the Church of San Rocco. The town hosts cultural events and festivals dedicated to wine, celebrating winemaking tradition and innovation.

2. Valdobbiadene

Valdobbiadene is the beating heart of Prosecco Superiore production, famous for its steep, terraced vineyards.

• Vineyards: The vineyards of Valdobbiadene are cultivated on steep hills that require careful, manual labor. This cultivation method, known as "heroic viticulture," ensures the quality of the grapes and the sustainability of production.
• Prosecco Superiore: Valdobbiadene is renowned for producing Prosecco Superiore DOCG, a high-quality sparkling wine distinguished by its fruity aroma and elegance. Visitors can participate in tastings and guided tours at local wineries, discovering the secrets of Prosecco production.
• Tourism: Valdobbiadene offers a unique gastronomic tourism experience, with restaurants and agriturismos serving traditional dishes paired with Prosecco. Scenic roads and hiking trails provide the opportunity to explore the region's natural and cultural landscape.

3. Cartizze

Cartizze is one of the most prestigious areas of the Prosecco hills, known for producing sparkling wine of the highest quality.

• Wine: The Prosecco from Cartizze is considered the crown jewel of production, known for its refined taste and aromatic complexity. The Cartizze vineyards extend over about 107 hectares and produce an exclusive and sought-after wine.
• Landscapes: The Cartizze area is characterized by steep, terraced hills, with vineyards overlooking spectacular views. This unique landscape offers an extraordinary visual experience, with vistas that range from cultivated hills to picturesque villages.
• Experience: Visitors can explore the Cartizze vineyards and participate in guided tastings, discovering the peculiarities of this fine wine. Local wineries offer tours and tastings, providing the opportunity to savor Cartizze Prosecco and learn about the passion and dedication of local producers.

Cultural and Historical Significance

The Prosecco Hills of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene represent an exceptional example of cultural landscape, where winemaking tradition intertwines with natural beauty. This region has been shaped by human activity over the centuries, with terraced vineyards that testify to the ingenuity and perseverance of local communities.

The winemaking culture of the Prosecco hills is an integral part of local identity, with events and festivals celebrating the grape harvest and wine production. The region hosts numerous wine festivals and cultural events that attract visitors from all over the world, promoting the culture and winemaking tradition of Veneto.

The history of the Prosecco hills is also linked to environmental protection and sustainability. Local producers adopt sustainable agricultural practices to preserve the landscape and ensure product quality, maintaining a balance between agricultural development and nature conservation.

Prosecco Hills: UNESCO World Heritage Site

In 2019, the Prosecco Hills of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene were recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, highlighting their universal value as an example of cultural and agricultural landscape. This recognition promotes the conservation and enhancement of this unique region, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy its wonders.

The inclusion of the Prosecco hills on the UNESCO World Heritage list underscores the importance of this region as an example of winemaking excellence, scenic beauty, and cultural tradition. The Prosecco hills continue to symbolize quality, innovation, and sustainability, attracting wine lovers, tourists, and nature enthusiasts from around the world.

Visiting the Prosecco Hills

Visiting the Prosecco hills offers a unique opportunity to explore one of Italy's most fascinating and renowned wine regions. Each vineyard and each village tells a story, inviting visitors to discover the beauty and culture of this unique land.

• Accommodation: The Prosecco hills offer a wide range of accommodation options, from luxurious agriturismos to cozy holiday homes. Staying in the towns of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene allows easy access to the main wineries and tourist attractions in the region.
• Cuisine: Venetian cuisine is renowned for its authentic flavors and traditional dishes, such as Prosecco risotto, baccalà alla vicentina, and local cheeses. Local restaurants and trattorias offer menus that highlight fresh local produce, accompanied by fine wines from the Prosecco hills.
• Activities: The Prosecco hills offer a multitude of activities for all seasons, including hiking, tastings, cycling, and gastronomic tours. Visitors can explore scenic trails, participate in guided tours of wineries, and enjoy the natural and cultural beauty of the region.

How to Reach the Prosecco Hills

The Prosecco hills are easily accessible thanks to a well-developed transportation network:

• By air: The nearest airports are Venice Marco Polo Airport and Treviso Airport, which offer domestic and international flights with connections to major European cities. From here, the Prosecco hills can be reached by car or public transport, with a journey of about 1-2 hours.
• By train: The train stations of Conegliano and Vittorio Veneto are well-connected to major Italian cities and provide convenient access to the Prosecco hills. Regional trains and bus services make it easy to reach the wine-producing areas of the region.
• By car: The Prosecco hills are easily accessible via the A27 motorway (Venice-Belluno) and provincial roads connecting Treviso and Conegliano to the wine-producing areas. Scenic routes offer a spectacular travel experience, allowing you to admire cultivated landscapes and natural beauty along the way.
• By bus: Regional bus services provide connections between Treviso and the main tourist destinations of the Prosecco hills, such as Conegliano, Valdobbiadene, and Cartizze. Tourist buses also offer direct connections from Venetian cities, making it easy for visitors to access the region.

Traveler Tips

To make the most of your visit to the Prosecco hills, here are some helpful tips:

• Clothing: Wear clothing suitable for the weather conditions and outdoor activities, especially when hiking among the vineyards. It is advisable to dress in layers and bring waterproof clothing to ensure comfort and practicality during wine tourism activities.
• Guide: Consider hiring a local guide to explore the Prosecco hills and discover the wineries and vineyards safely. Local guides offer personalized experiences and in-depth knowledge about wine production, enriching the visitor's experience with stories and curiosities about winemaking traditions.
• Tastings: Book winery visits and tastings in advance to ensure a complete and satisfying experience. Guided tastings offer the opportunity to discover the different nuances of Prosecco and learn about the producers who passionately uphold the art of winemaking.

The Prosecco hills of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene represent a jewel of Italian cultural and winemaking heritage, offering a fascinating journey through cultivated landscapes, centuries-old traditions, and authentic winemaking culture. From terraced vineyards to historic wineries, the Prosecco hills provide a unique experience of beauty, taste, and discovery that continues to inspire and enchant visitors from all over the world.

Exploring the Prosecco hills means immersing yourself in a heritage of inestimable value, discovering the magic and wonder of a region that has left a lasting mark on the winemaking and cultural history of humanity. A journey through these hills is an opportunity to experience wine culture in its splendor, admiring rural architecture and the timeless beauty that continues to inspire generations of wine and nature lovers.