The green of the hills of Col San Martino provided the backdrop for the 73rd Piva TrophyThe territories where Prosecco Valdobbiadene DOCG is born have become UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019The DOCG acronym (controlled and guaranteed designation of origin), achieved in 2009, represents the highest quality for an Italian wineThese hills, at times impervious, contain an unparalleled history and tradition that can only be appreciated by experiencing them firsthand.
A delicate balance
Almost 19.000 hectares (18.967 to be exact), where man and nature have found a perfect balance, in fact, there are only 8.800 hectares of cultivable landTo maintain the quality of this wine production, no further additions are possible. A special feature of this area is the ability to cycle safely away from traffic, enjoying the landscape vineyard after vineyard. Tradition reigns supreme on these hills and up to 800 hours of work are required for each cultivated hectare, all done entirely by hand. It's impossible for winemakers to use mechanical means due to the slope on which the vines grow.
Another example of perfect harmony between man and nature is given by the terracing of these lands, the vines are not held up by traditional stone walls. The conformation of the territory allowed the use of the "ciglioni", making the vines grow parallel and vertically to the slope of the land. Thanks to these precautions, cycling in this area, it is possible to notice the classic "checkerboard" landscape on the backs of the hills. where vines and woods alternate in complete harmony.
Discover the territory
The landscapes of these hills are waiting to be discovered and there is something for everyone. The wineries are numerous and offer tastings and experiences in contact with the territoryDuring our visit we had the opportunity to discover two of them. The first was the follador, founded in 1769, has more than 250 years of history and 9 generations of winemakers. The second is the cellar Andreola, where the presentation of the Piva Trophy was held on Saturday evening. The mayor of Farra di Soligo (Mattia Perencin), the councilor for culture and tourism (Silvia Spadetto) and Alessandro Ballan participated in the meeting..
The 2008 world champion in Varese was keen to underline the importance of letting tourists discover the area. "As a true Treviso native," he said, "I've always been very attached to my hometown, I have cycled along these roads in training practically every day of my careerNow, with more time on my hands, I enjoy the landscape and the views these hills offer much more. With the Veneto region there is the will to develop the Bike Academy here too, it will be a way to bring foreign tourists, and not only, by bike to discover the area".
Valentina Favore, one of the organizers of this event, echoes this sentiment: «With the advent of e-bikes and gravel we have the opportunity to let an ever-increasing number of tourists discover the hills of Valdobbiadene. Valdobbiadene was also born in first road dedicated to wine in Italy, in 1966. Furthermore, every year at the end of May the Prosecco exhibition is held: an exhibition event where winemakers present their products."
The bell tower of the Cistercian abbey, built in 1300 The cloister, however, dates back to the mid-1200th century. Valentino Mori inside his laboratory
The bell tower of the Cistercian abbey, built in 1300 The cloister, however, dates back to the mid-1200th century. Valentino Mori inside his laboratory
Man and nature
What is created in these hills between man and nature is a combination that has regained strength over the yearsHidden within the greenery of these vineyards are some truly characteristic areas. One of these is the Cartizze hill which enjoys an ideal microclimate and constant exposure to the sun. Right here, from these very rare 106 hectares, the Prosecco di Conegliano-Valdobbiadene Superiore di Cartizze is born.
One way to enjoy this hill to the fullest is dismount in front of the door of the Osteria senz'oste, stopping to taste the local productsIt's a farmhouse where tourists, but especially locals, come to spend a day immersed in nature and enjoying the delicacies of local cuisine. What's special? There's no bill; each guest leaves a donation in a small box at the entrance at the end of the day..
The entrance to the Osteria senza oste Inside there are ancient objects and tools The walls are covered with dedications, testifying to the importance of the place for the community.
The entrance to the Osteria senza oste Inside there are ancient objects and tools The walls are covered with dedications
Art and culture
The contribution made by the Cistercian monks in the 12th century was fundamental to the growth and development of these countries. The ability of these monks to reclaim the initially marshy territory allowed the growth and development of small communitiesThe last remaining Cistercian abbey in the Veneto region still stands in the village of Follina. Enthusiasts can also visit it, marveling at the cloister and church, built in the 1200th and 1300th centuries, respectively.
On the occasion of the last visit of the day on Saturday 2nd April we had the opportunity to get to know a true artist of this territory: Valentino MoriThe sculptor, commissioned to create the trophy for the Piva winner, invited us into his studio. His total dedication and immense passion have allowed him to establish himself as one of the finest wrought iron artists.
