Cantine Neri

History and Heritage

Cantine Neri occupies a medieval Templars’ residence in Località Bardano, on Orvieto's outskirts, where viticulture dates to Etruscan times. Enrico Neri transformed the estate in 2006, shifting from grape sales to boutique production of 50,000 bottles annually. The 40-hectare property features vineyards at 220-320 meters elevation on clayey-tuff soils, fostering slow maturation of native varieties amid diurnal temperature shifts.

Vineyards and Terroir

Eighty percent of vines yield whites: Grechetto, Procanico (Trebbiano Toscano), alongside Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Viognier; reds like Sangiovese, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Pinot Noir comprise the rest. Key wines include Ca' Viti Orvieto DOC Classico Superiore (Grechetto 50%, Procanico 40%, Drupeggio, Verdello, Malvasia 10%), showcasing golden hues, dried gorse, smoky granite notes, and savory finishes. Pioneering Grechetto spumante uses aromatic Grechetto G5.

Winemaking and Experiences

Tours traverse historic vineyards with panoramic views, barrel rooms, and millennial Etruscan caves aging metodo classico sparkling wines. Tastings feature Orvieto Classico vintages, Grechetto, noble rot dessert wines, paired with estate charcuterie from free-range Mangalica pigs. Flavors of Orvieto (€85) includes five wines with local specialties; durations range 1-2 hours or up to 4.5 for private groups.

Wines and Tasting Notes

Ca' Viti offers warm golden color, underwood, smoky accents, bitter concreteness, and aging potential. Other labels evoke ripe fruit, aromatic herbs, citrus peels, wild rosemary, and mineral persistence. Reds provide structure; whites emphasize freshness, sapidity, and complexity from the Orvieto DOC's traditional blend.

Setting and Surroundings

The estate blends tradition with modern cellars, surrounded by Umbrian landscapes. Open daily 9 AM-6 PM (Sunday to 1 PM), it's ideal for wine enthusiasts seeking authentic Orvieto DOC immersion near the town's perched rock.