Wine Denomination from Veneto
Valdobbiadene Superiore di Cartizze is a prestigious sub-denomination within the Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG, representing the grand cru of the Prosecco world. Cartizze is a single hill in the municipality of Valdobbiadene, covering only 107 hectares of vineyards, making it one of Italy's smallest and most prized DOCG zones. The wines produced from this exceptional site are considered the finest expression of Glera grapes grown in the Treviso hills. Cartizze typically produces sparkling wines of greater complexity, aromatic intensity, and body compared to standard Prosecco, reflecting the unique combination of microclimate and soil on this distinctive hill. The limited production and premium quality command significantly higher prices than standard Prosecco.
The Cartizze production zone covers a single hill of 107 hectares in the municipality of Valdobbiadene in the province of Treviso, Veneto. This makes it one of Italy's smallest geographical wine designations. The Cartizze hill rises steeply above the Glera valley near the town of Santo Stefano, with vineyards planted on extreme slopes that require entirely manual cultivation. The hill's unique combination of aspect, altitude (between 100 and 350 meters), and microclimate creates growing conditions distinct from the surrounding Prosecco zone. The entire 107 hectares are planted with Glera vines, and ownership is divided among approximately 140 different producers, contributing to the diversity of Cartizze wines in the marketplace.
Valdobbiadene Superiore di Cartizze must be produced from Glera, which must represent at least 85 percent of the blend. Other authorized varieties including Verdiso, Bianchetta Trevigiana, Perera, and Glera Lunga may comprise up to 15 percent of the blend. Glera, formerly known as Prosecco after the village of Prosecco near Trieste, is the defining grape of the Conegliano Valdobbiadene zone. On the Cartizze hill, Glera achieves exceptional ripeness and aromatic intensity, producing grapes with higher sugar levels and more complex aromatic profiles than those grown in other parts of the Prosecco zone. The combination of steep slopes, unique microclimate, and the sandy, rocky soils of the Cartizze hill produces truly distinctive base wines.
Glera grapes on the steep Cartizze slopes are harvested by hand in mid-September, typically 1 to 2 weeks later than in other parts of the Prosecco zone, due to the hill's excellent microclimate and excellent exposure that allows later, fuller ripening. All vineyard work is manual due to the extreme steepness. After harvest, grapes are gently pressed and the must undergoes primary fermentation. Secondary fermentation to create the bubbles is performed using the Charmat method (Martinotti method), with the wine refermented in pressurized stainless steel tanks. The extended fermentation and aging in contact with yeast in the autoclave contributes to the greater complexity of Cartizze compared to standard Prosecco. The wine is generally produced in a dry to off-dry style.
Valdobbiadene Superiore di Cartizze presents a pale golden-yellow color with fine, persistent bubbles and a delicate mousse. The aromatic profile is more intense and complex than standard Prosecco: fresh apple, pear, white peach, apricot, acacia honey, wisteria, citrus zest, and a distinctive floral depth that reflects the unique microclimate of the Cartizze hill. On the palate, the wine is delicate yet substantial, with a fuller body and greater aromatic persistence than regular Valdobbiadene Prosecco. Sweetness varies by producer, ranging from brut to dry to demi-sec. The finish is long, aromatic, and delicate. The wine is best appreciated as an aperitivo or with delicate dishes, desserts, and fruit, where its finesse and aromatic complexity can be fully appreciated.
The Cartizze hill is a geologically distinct formation within the Conegliano Valdobbiadene zone. The sandy, rocky soils, rich in minerals and highly permeable, are particularly well-suited to Glera cultivation and contribute distinctive aromatic characteristics. The hill's south-facing exposition maximizes sun exposure, while its relatively high elevation and the surrounding hills create a unique microclimate with moderate temperatures and higher humidity than the valley floor. The steep slopes (often exceeding 35-40 degrees) ensure perfect water runoff and contribute to the natural concentration of flavors in the grapes. The UNESCO World Heritage Site designation of the Conegliano Valdobbiadene landscape (2019) recognizes the cultural and agricultural importance of this remarkable wine territory.
Valdobbiadene Superiore di Cartizze DOCG regulations specify that production is limited to the 107 hectares of the Cartizze hill exclusively. Glera must represent at least 85 percent of the blend. Only the sparkling (spumante) version produced by the Charmat method is permitted. The wine may be produced in various sweetness levels (brut, extra dry, dry). Maximum yields are set to ensure concentration. All wines must undergo organoleptic and analytical testing. The denomination is managed within the Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG framework by the Consorzio di Tutela del Prosecco di Conegliano Valdobbiadene, which promotes Cartizze as the prestige tier of the broader Prosecco appellation system.