The Senio River winds its way through the area,
touching the towns of Riolo Terme and Casola Valsenio, and stretching to parts
of Faenza, Brisighella, and Imola. The hills rise from 60 meters above sea level to 250 meters at their highest points,
creating a landscape that perfectly reflects the complexity of the Sangiovese
grown here.
Serra is a land
of contrasts, with soils that shift dramatically depending on the altitude –
from red and grey clays in the lower areas to chalky marls and ochre earth in
the higher elevations.
The Serra subzone is divided into four main
areas. In the northernmost part, the
soils are fertile and deep, rich in iron-clay, producing Sangiovese wines
that are fruity, light, and vibrant, with a freshness that mirrors the youthful
energy of these hills. Moving south,
into the heart of the subzone, the soils become more clay-limestone, giving the
Sangiovese greater depth and complexity. The fruit, already lively, grows
warmer and fuller, while the tannins become more defined, resulting in
structured yet elegant wines.
As we follow the course of the Senio, we come
across the "calanchi" or ravines that cut through the landscape.
While the vineyards here are fewer, where the vines do thrive, the wines take
on a striking minerality, born from the marl-rich soils distinctive to this
part of Serra. Further south, we enter the western
edge of the Vena del Gesso Romagnola Park, where the landscape changes once
again, taking on a stark, almost lunar appearance, with a few vineyards
clinging to the rugged, unforgiving terrain.
Despite these variations, Serra’s Sangiovese
has common traits that make it instantly recognizable. The color is deep and
rich, and the aromas are filled with clear notes of black cherry and morello
cherry. On the palate, the balance between acidity and tannins creates a
dynamic contrast, leading to a full, harmonious sip, rounded out by a soft,
warming finish. Thanks to their structure and freshness, these wines age
beautifully, revealing new layers of complexity over time.
The Fortress of Riolo Terme
The Rocca
of Riolo Terme, majestic and beautifully preserved, stands as a silent
witness to the region’s history. Built
in the late 14th century, this fortress still showcases its medieval features,
with its moat and battlements recalling stories of sieges and defense. Today,
the Rocca is a vibrant cultural center, hosting exhibitions, events, and
historical tours, keeping the connection between past and present alive.