In the high hills of Treviso, the word “Riva” does not indicate a simple slope, but a cru of excellence recognised by the specifications of Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG. Staying in Miane in winter offers the rare opportunity to study this landscape when it is “naked”, revealing the complex geology that makes this wine unique.

Geology and History: Why the Shores are “Heroic”

The Rive are the steepest vineyards in the UNESCO territory, where the slope often exceeds the 35%.

• Age-old origin: These hills were formed by the uplift of ancient seabeds and the action of glaciers. The soil, a mix of marl and limestone, forces the roots of the vines to go down deep into the earth, giving the wine a minerality not found on the plains.
• Viticulture Eroica: Every operation, from pruning to harvesting, is carried out exclusively by hand. It is estimated that one hectare of “Riva” requires up to 600-800 hours of manual work per year, compared to 150 for a mechanised vineyard.
• Le Rive di Miane: The municipality of Miane is home to some of the most prestigious Rive, characterised by a cool microclimate that preserves the acidity and primary aromas of the Glera grape.

The Winter Experience: The Technical Tasting

In winter, the ritual of Prosecco abandons the light-heartedness of the summer aperitif to become deep sensory analysis.

• The Perlage Study: In a technical tasting session with a sommelier, you will learn that the fineness of the bubbles is an indication of a slow, quality sparkling process.
• Beyond Brut: Winter is perfect for discovering the “Extra Brut” versions (almost sugar-free) or the ancestral methods (“Col Fondo”), where the yeast gives notes of bread crust and a more complex structure, ideal for accompanying traditional hot dishes.
• The Warmth of the Reds: Let us not forget that these lands also produce structured reds (such as the Colli di Conegliano Rosso), which in winter find their fullest expression when paired with local mature cheeses.

What is Prosecco delle Rive?
This is the most prestigious type of Prosecco Superiore DOCG, produced only with grapes from steep vineyards in a single municipality (such as Miane), harvested exclusively by hand.