Catalanesca del Monte Somma

Styles

Terroir

• North-western slopes of the Somma-Vesuvio volcanic complex: the sole cultivation zone of Catalanesca.
• Truncated-cone volcanic morphology with near-vertical inner slopes and steep outer slopes of concave profile.
• Somma drainage network featuring 'beheaded' drainage lines resulting from caldera formation.
• North-facing exposure favoured by the tramontana, which prevents air stagnation and promotes the preservation of late-harvested grapes.

• Documented presence of Catalanesca on the north-facing slopes of Somma-Vesuvio as early as 1500; Froio (1878) and Semmola (1848) describe its viticulture and vinification.
• De Giudice (1912): the north-facing exposure favours late ripening of the grape and the tramontana prevents air stagnation, a historically documented viticultural practice.

• The north-facing exposure on Somma promotes late ripening of the grapes, while tramontana winds prevent air stagnation, preserving wine quality.

Facts drawn from the cahier's terroir-link section (Lien au terroir) by automatic interpretation — see the source.

Sources

• eAmbrosia register (EU) — File number PGI-IT-A0254
• Official trade body site — Consorzio Tutela Vini Vesuvio