A day trip to Cinque Terre from Florence is without a doubt the most memorable experience of any trip to the region. However, who would have thought that the Cinque Terre is not only known for its breathtaking scenery, breathtaking views, and charming villages with pastel colors that will make you want to return? Because the wine produced in the area is also rather nice! In point of fact, the Sciacchetrà DOC is perhaps the most well-known product that comes from this coastal beauty location. What makes it even more impressive is the fact that it is produced on the steep terraces that are the composition of the agricultural land here. This vintage’s producers are referred to as heroic viticulturists due to the fact that their work is believed to be very challenging. It is a good idea to learn a little bit more about the Sciacchetrà DOC before you embark on your Cinque Terre day trip from Florence. This will allow you to be aware of what items to keep an eye out for and ensure that you do not overlook any wines that have the potential to become a firm favorite on your wine list. Is the Name It is not known where the term Sciacchetrà originated; nonetheless, there are many who are knowledgeable about the matter who claim that it originated from the Greek word “Shekar,” which denoted a beverage that had been fermented. They believe that the phrase originates from a local dialect word called “sciaàca,” which means to squeeze or squash and alludes to the procedure that is used to manufacture the wine. However, other people believe that this interpretation is more reasonable. History It is true that the ancient Greeks were the first people to occupy this region. They were also the ones who initiated a basic kind of viniculture, which was later developed by the Romans. During the Middle Ages, the notion of terracing was introduced in the region, which made it feasible to cultivate the grapes on the steep cliffs in a more efficient manner. This region has been relatively impoverished throughout the course of many centuries; nonetheless, the people who live here are quite proud of their Sciacchetrà wine and are steadfast in their production traditions, which have been handed down from one generation to the next. In the 1970s, monorails were used to facilitate the transportation of grapes, which led to an increase in the production of this wine. This growth has continued ever since. Currently, it is considered to be among the most well-known in the area. Grapes Sciacchetrà is a fortified liquor wine that is made with Bosco grapes (minimum 40 percent), which are the typical grapes from Liguria, Albarola grapes (maximum 40 percent), which are another local grape from Liguria, and Vermentino grapes (maximum 40 percent), which are the white fragrant grapes that are common in Liguria and Sardinia. Production The production of this delectable alcoholic beverage requires a significant amount of labor and a significant amount of time. There is a distance of one meter and a half between each terrace of the vineyards, which are planted on steep hillsides. The vines themselves do not stand very tall, which means that the majority of the harvesting must be done on one’s knees or while bending down. This makes the grafting process quite challenging. Immediately after the harvesting procedure, the grapes are arranged on gratings in preparation for the drying process, which typically takes around sixty days. After the fruit has been allowed to dry, the workers are required to manually take it from the branches. After that, they must put the fruit through the process of being crushed or squeezed in order to extract the liquor. The extracted juice is then placed in wooden barrels to age for at least a year after being kept in metal kegs for an additional two months after the extraction process has been completed. Before it is filled into bottles, Sciacchetrà Riserva DOC is kept in storage for a minimum of three years. After that, a device known as a “torchio” is used to re-squeeze the skins of the fruit. Before the fruit is left to be used in other liquors, such as grappa, this guarantees that every last bit of liquid has been taken from the fruit before it is entirely dried. Flavour Despite the fact that it is a sweet wine, this one is more refreshing than it is sticky. It has a background flavor of honey and caramel, and it combines a dryness with that flavor. A traditional combination is created when it is accompanied with cheese, dessert, or meats that have been cured. If you are planning a day trip to Cinque Terre from Florence, you should make it a point to keep an eye out for this refreshing beverage. By making a reservation with a local tour operator, you will be able to get insider information on the bottle that is the most suitable for purchase. It is highly recommended that you buy a bottle of it to take home with you if you do not get the opportunity to enjoy it while you are out on your trip. Publisher’s Plate WalkAbout Florence is an independent company that provides fantastic tours and excursions around Italy, including the greatest Cinque Terre day trip from Florence. Mauro Bramante is the Director of WalkAbout Florence. It doesn’t matter whether you want to ride a vintage Vespa, sample the world-famous Chianti wine, or get your hands dirty in the kitchen with fresh foods from the area; Mauro’s business guarantees exhilaration, adventure, and most importantly, fun. There is no need to seek any farther than WalkAbout Florence for your next vacation if you are eager to experience the enchantment of Italy with the assistance of some tour guides who are enthusiastic and very informed.