Wine Tours Hills of Faenza

The Hills of Faenza (Colli di Faenza) rise gently above the plains of Emilia-Romagna, just southwest of the historic town of Faenza. Though part of a region better known for ceramics, this area has a long history of viticulture rooted in the surrounding countryside. Recognized as a DOC in 1997, Colli di Faenza forms part of the broader Romagna wine tradition, focusing on quality wines crafted from both native and international varieties. Thanks to mixed soils and favorable exposures, the hills offer a unique environment for producing fresh, expressive wines.

Wine tourism in the Hills of Faenza offers a peaceful, rural charm. Small producers welcome visitors by appointment, often guiding them through vineyards, showing off traditional cellars, and offering tastings of wines paired with local foods. The region’s rolling hills and quiet roads invite slow exploration. Since the area remains less traveled than other parts of Emilia-Romagna, tastings are typically more personal, with winemakers sharing the stories and techniques behind their bottles in an authentic, relaxed atmosphere.

The local cuisine reflects the rustic elegance of Romagna: fresh pastas, cured meats, mushroom dishes, and grilled meats play a starring role. Piadina, polenta, and hearty sauces are frequently on the menu, paired with regional wines that bring balance and flavor. Reds from the hills match well with stews and roasted meats, while whites—whether crisp or lightly aromatic—pair nicely with vegetable starters, cheeses, or river fish. Meals in this region are simple, generous, and full of character, echoing the surrounding vineyards.

Colli di Faenza DOC wines are made from a mix of native and international grapes. For reds, Sangiovese remains the cornerstone, often blended with Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Ciliegiolo, or Ancellotta. Whites may include Pignoletto, Grechetto, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Bianco, and Trebbiano. The diversity of soil types—from red clay to loamy and calcareous layers—adds complexity and variation across microzones. This combination of grapes and terroir allows producers to offer both traditional and modern wine expressions.

Spring brings a fresh wave of green to the hills, with new vineyard growth and ideal weather for countryside tastings. Summer can be warm, but the elevation offers some relief, making morning or evening visits especially pleasant. Autumn is the peak for wine lovers: harvest season brings color to the landscape and energy to the wineries. Winter, though quieter, is a great time for cellar-focused visits and tasting structured reds. Every season reveals a different side of the region and its wine culture.

A trip to the Hills of Faenza pairs wine with landscape, history, and gastronomy. Begin in Faenza, then wind through nearby hill towns and vineyard areas. Brisighella, with its medieval charm, is a perfect stop to explore between tastings. Allow time for walking through vineyards or relaxing with a glass of local wine at a countryside trattoria. Since most producers are small-scale, it's best to arrange tastings in advance. With a full day or two, you can enjoy the wines, foods, and relaxed rhythm of this lesser-known yet rewarding corner of Romagna.

The average price of a wine tasting with winery visit in Hills of Faenza is around €35.75. Depending on the experience, prices range from €19.00 to €52.50. Booking in advance ensures availability and the best prices.

Here are the top wineries to visit in Hills of Faenza:

• Zinzani
• Poderi del Nazareno
• La Sabbiona Agriturismo & Cantina

Here are the best wine tastings to book in Hills of Faenza:

• Wine tasting with the winemaker at Zinzani Wines
• Tasting of 5 Wines and Winery tour at La Sabbiona
• Tasting of 3 wines and winery tour at La Sabbiona
• Visit vineyards and wine cellar with tasting of wines and typical products of Emilia Romagna