The Western Riviera dei Fiori refers to the stretch of western Liguria closest to the French border, where viticulture flourishes between the coast, the inland valleys and the hills of the Maritime Alps. It is a vertical landscape, characterised by steep slopes, widely varying exposures and terraces supported by dry stone walls, often maintained by hand. The vineyards follow the contours of the terraces and slopes, adapting to soils that vary in origin and texture, with limestone, clay and sandstone components that contribute to the richness of local expressions.
The climate is mild and sunny, tempered by the proximity of the Ligurian Sea and sheltered by the mountains behind. The maritime influence promotes consistent ripening, whilst differences in altitude and the temperature variations between day and night help to preserve aromas, freshness and flavour definition. In the inland valleys, such as those of the Nervia and Crosia, the microclimate takes on more continental characteristics and is particularly well-suited to red grape varieties.
The region’s signature grape variety is Rossese, the basis of Rossese di Dolceacqua, a ruby-coloured red with a refined and fragrant profile, featuring notes of small fruits, flowers and Mediterranean spices. Alongside it are Pigato and Vermentino, the stars of dry, savoury and fragrant whites, capable of expressing the region’s maritime character. Granaccia, Moscato and Albarola are also present, used to produce dry, aromatic, ‘superiori’ or ‘passito’ wines in keeping with tradition.
The winemaking process focuses on bringing out the best in the grapes and individual plots: temperature-controlled fermentation, ageing in stainless steel to preserve vibrancy and clarity, or slower maturation in wood or other vessels for the more structured wines. The history of wine here is intertwined with that of the hillside villages, farming families and terraced vineyards, which remain an essential feature of the landscape and the local winemaking identity to this day.