Spoleto DOC Wine Rules Overhauled as Nearly One Million Bottles Set for Holiday Tables

The Consorzio Tutela Vini Montefalco has announced the implementation of significant changes to the regulations governing Spoleto DOC wines. The process, which began in 2021, was completed in recent months with approvals from the board of directors, the members’ assembly, the Umbria regional government, and finally the European Community. The changes became official with their publication in Italy’s Official Gazette, making them immediately effective for producers in the area.

The revised rules bring several notable updates. The “Bianco” category and the “Trebbiano Spoletino Superiore” designation have been eliminated. In their place, a new “Trebbiano Spoletino Riserva” category has been introduced. This wine must be made with at least 85% Trebbiano Spoletino grapes, with up to 15% allowed from other white grape varieties authorized for cultivation in Umbria. The maximum yield remains set at 11 tons per hectare.

Another important change is the removal of the previous altitude restriction, which had limited production to vineyards located below 400 meters above sea level. This limit was considered outdated and no longer representative of the region’s viticultural potential. Producers of both Trebbiano Spoletino and Trebbiano Spoletino Riserva are now permitted to use skin maceration during winemaking. This technique is expected to enhance the wine’s aging potential and complexity. As a result, the official color description for these wines has been updated to “deep golden yellow,” reflecting the typical hue achieved through maceration.

Producers will also be able to include “Umbria” as a territorial indication on labels. This move aims to strengthen the regional identity of Spoleto DOC wines and provide consumers with a clearer sense of origin when choosing these products in domestic and international markets. The decision is part of a broader effort by local winemakers to present a more unified and recognizable narrative about their area.

Alongside these regulatory changes, the Consorzio has started a new process to expand the Spoleto DOC production zone. The proposal would extend eligibility to parts of Bevagna, Gualdo Cattaneo, and Giano dell’Umbria—areas already recognized for Montefalco DOC and Montefalco Sagrantino DOCG production. If approved, this expansion would allow wineries in neighboring zones, previously excluded from Spoleto DOC status, to participate under the new rules. The initiative is seen as a strategic step to reinforce territorial continuity among local denominations and create new opportunities for wineries already active in adjacent areas.

The expansion is particularly significant for Trebbiano Spoletino, a grape variety that has seen growing recognition for its quality and market appeal in recent years. By broadening the production area and updating winemaking practices, local producers hope to further elevate the profile of this native grape.

Paolo Bartoloni, president of Consorzio Tutela Vini Montefalco, highlighted the importance of unity among members in achieving these changes quickly. He also noted that wines protected by the Consorzio play an important role during holiday celebrations, appearing on tables alongside traditional dishes that reflect the deep connection between local culture and viticulture. Bartoloni estimated that nearly one million bottles from member wineries will be consumed during this festive period.

With these regulatory updates now in effect and plans underway for geographic expansion, Spoleto DOC enters a new phase focused on both preserving tradition and embracing innovation. The changes are designed to better reflect the unique characteristics of the region while offering producers greater flexibility and visibility in an increasingly competitive market.