WHAT IS CARTIZZE? AN AREA AND A WINE

The Cartizze area is a true hidden treasure among the hills of Valdobbiadene (Treviso, Italy). It is a small region covering only 107 hectares (about 1 square kilometer), extending across the fractions of Santo Stefano, Saccol, and San Pietro di Barbozza. This exclusive zone is dedicated to cultivating Glera grapes, from which one of Italy’s most renowned and appreciated wines is produced: Valdobbiadene DOCG Superiore di Cartizze sparkling wine.

This subzone is recognized as the highest quality segment of the denomination and is called the “Golden Pentagon” for its unique characteristics. The combination of microclimate and terrain creates perfect conditions for the growth of healthy vines, resulting in a wine with distinctive qualities. For this reason, Cartizze is considered a “CRU,” a term that indicates a quality selection within a larger production area.

What makes Cartizze so special compared to other Prosecco production zones?

1. South-facing exposure: The hills of Cartizze are oriented to the south, capturing sunlight throughout the year. This promotes even ripening of the grapes, with high sugar levels and a well-defined aromatic profile;
2. Natural ventilation: A constant breeze coming from the mountains keeps the vines well-aerated and dry, preventing diseases and fostering healthy bunches with balanced aromas;
3. Rich mineral soil: The soil, composed of sandstone and moraines of tectonic origin, has been shaped over time by ongoing formations of deep clays. This provides the vine roots with a reserve of water and nutrients;
4. Natural drainage: The five hill slopes crossing the valley facilitate the runoff of excess water, maintaining optimal conditions for the plants and preventing harmful stagnation;
5. Temperature variations: At night, the cool air from the Prealps descends into the valley, creating significant day-to-night temperature swings. These fluctuations help develop intense and complex aromas in the grapes, which are reflected in the wine’s flavor;
6. Low yields: Compared to other areas, vines in Cartizze produce fewer bunches (about 120 quintals per hectare versus 135 q/ha in the DOCG zone and 180 q/ha in the DOC zone), but of superior quality. This focus on quantity ensures a richer, more elegant, and concentrated wine.

Curiosities about Cartizze

• Grapes destined for Cartizze must be harvested and vinified exclusively within the municipality of Valdobbiadene;
• Bottles of Cartizze are produced in very limited quantities, approximately 1.2 million annually, and are only available in the sparkling wine (Spumante) version;
• The sparkling process is carried out using the Martinotti method, which involves a secondary fermentation in autoclave;
• The Cartizze area is the last to be harvested, allowing the grapes to ripen longer. This process ensures a perfect balance between acidity and sugars, resulting in a wine with remarkable aromatic concentration.

Cartizze is more than just a wine: it’s a sensory experience, the result of a special territory and production techniques that respect nature and time.

We produce it in a Dry version, with 20 grams of sugar per liter, to pair traditionally with dry pastries at the end of a meal. Come discover this excellence in our winery: a sip of Cartizze will take you among the gentle hills of Valdobbiadene, where tradition meets innovation.

Az. Agr. Drusian Francesco, Via Anche, 1 – 31049 Bigolino di Valdobbiadene (TV) – Italy