Zibibbo Experience

There is a place in the province of Reggio Calabria where time seems to slow down, where pristine nature intertwines with history and culture, and where wine tells the story of the land with a unique intensity. This is the Costa Viola, one of the region's most authentic corners, revealing itself in all its beauty thanks to the experience offered by the AgriCostaViola Cooperative.

We are in Ceramida, specifically in the Granaro locality, a corner of the Costa Viola where nature and tradition blend into a unique landscape characterized by steep slopes plunging into the crystal-clear sea. Here, heroic viticulture is a centuries-old practice that has shaped the territory, making it an extraordinary example of human adaptation to the environment.

Heroic viticulture refers to cultivating grapevines under extreme conditions, such as slopes exceeding 30%, high altitudes, or on terraces supported by dry-stone walls. Along the Costa Viola, these terraces are called armacìe—structures built without the use of mortar, where stones are skillfully placed one on top of the other. This technique not only allows cultivation in otherwise inaccessible areas but also plays a vital role in preventing hydrogeological instability, preventing landslides and mudslides.

In 2018, the art of dry-stone walling was recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. This recognition highlights the importance of these structures in safeguarding the land and preserving the traditional rural landscape. The armacìe of the Costa Viola represent an emblematic example of how humankind has adapted to and enhanced a challenging terrain, transforming it into a productive and culturally significant resource.

Strolling through the vineyards of the Costa Viola, one can truly perceive the symbiosis between humanity and nature. The armacìe are not merely functional structures; they tell stories of hard work, ingenuity, and passion. Every stone laid is a testament to ancient knowledge passed down from generation to generation, which has allowed this globally unique landscape to be preserved and valued.

The journey begins at Podere Lombardo, an agricultural oasis immersed in greenery, where the rows of vines tell stories of labor, passion, and respect for the earth. Here, among "The Terraces of Aeolus" (Le Terrazze di Eolo), the landscape opens up to the deep blue of the Strait of Messina, while the scent of the earth fills the air, heralding the magic of this place.

The walk through the vineyards of the Ceramida farm leads to Rocco's Bench (la Panchina di Rocco), a panoramic viewpoint offering one of the most breathtaking vistas in Calabria. This colorful bench, suspended between sky and sea, is dedicated to the memory of Rocco Salerno, a passionate hiker who loved this corner of paradise and whose dream was made immortal by his friends. From here, your gaze is lost along the horizon, embracing Bagnara, Scilla, the Strait, and, on clear days, even the Aeolian Islands and Capo Vaticano.

Along the way, the narrative intertwines with the landscape: stories of fishermen and farmers—two sides of the same coin—who have made the Costa Viola a unique place where the mountains gently touch the sea. Anecdotes about heroic viticulture, the art of grafting, and the processing of Zibibbo grapes enrich the experience, transforming it into a journey through time and culture.

Upon returning to Podere Lombardo, the experience comes full circle with a tasting session that celebrates the authentic flavors of the region. Three wines tell the history and character of this land:

• Donna Caterina – an intense red wine, a true expression of the Vigna Lombardo vineyard.
• Nero d’Aspromonte – another red wine, produced by the Ceramida farm, rich in personality.
• Gramà Zibibbo Bianco Costa Viola IGT – an aromatic and enveloping white wine that encapsulates the sea breeze and the strength of the Calabrian sun.

The wines are paired with a selection of local products: friselle topped with tomato concassé, fresh ricottine cheese, lardo di Colonnata, 'nduja, spicy spianata salami, and olives. A triumph of flavors that enhances the bond between food, wine, and the landscape.

Taking part in this experience means immersing yourself in the beauty of the Costa Viola, rediscovering the connection between humanity and nature, and letting yourself be carried away by the stories and flavors of an authentic territory. Whether the sky is clear or veiled by clouds, the charm of these places remains unaltered, leaving in your heart the promise of a return.

Visiting the Costa Viola means diving into a land where winemaking tradition weaves together with natural beauty. The armacìe and heroic viticulture offer visitors not just breathtaking views, but also the opportunity to understand and appreciate the importance of preserving traditional agricultural practices and the cultural heritage they represent.

The AgriCostaViola Cooperative awaits you to share stories, flavors, and the extraordinary beauty of a unique land over a glass of wine—a symbol of union and perfect balance between human effort and the magnificence of nature.

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