The Faenza-Forlì Apennines comprise a band of hills and mountains where viticulture follows the gradual rise of the terrain, from landscapes close to the plain up to the inland valleys and the cooler altitudes of the Apennines. It is a varied territory, characterised by the courses of the Lamone, Marzeno, Montone and Rabbi rivers, where aspect, altitude and ventilation combine to define a remarkable variety of oenological expressions.
Geology is one of the area’s defining features. Here, one finds Pliocene clays, marls and sandstones of the Marnoso-arenacea Formation, calcareous soils and slopes shaped by badlands. In the area between Faenza and Forlì, the Spungone—a ridge rich in limestone deposits and marine shells—is of particular significance, whilst in the more eastern areas, the Vena del Gesso introduces evaporitic substrates and landscapes with a strong sense of identity. These soil types contribute to wines with a balanced structure, characterised by freshness, savouriness and a complex aromatic profile.
The climate varies with altitude: more temperate and sunny in the lower hills, becoming progressively cooler inland, with daily temperature ranges that are ideal for the slow ripening of the grapes and the preservation of their aromas. Sangiovese is the main red grape variety, producing wines with a ruby colour, aromas of violets and dark fruits, a tannic structure and good ageing potential. Among the white grape varieties, Albana and Trebbiano Romagnolo stand out, alongside Bombino Bianco – also used for Pagadebit – and traditional local varieties such as Cagnina and Centesimino.
The range includes still, semi-sparkling and sparkling wines, as well as passito wines produced from late harvests and dried grapes. Alongside the use of stainless steel—which is particularly well-suited to preserving the wine’s integrity and fragrance—the winery also employs oak ageing and practices designed to highlight the characteristics of individual plots, their exposures and the differences between the valleys. The long rural tradition thus coexists with a contemporary approach to viticulture that focuses on expressing the distinctive character of the terroir.