The hills just after Modena running alongside the motorway are the first sign of the Apennines and shelter a series of vine-clad valleys. This is DOC Colli Bolognesi (hills of Bologna) territory, an area producing many fine wines with excellent pedigrees, including Emilia's principal white wine, Pignoletto. Exploring the area is simple; just exit the motorway at Casalecchio di Reno and take a leisurely drive around the numerous villages protected by ancient castles on the heights or, down on the plain, towns and villages that owe their origins to ease of access for travelling merchants.
DOC Colli Bolognesi vineyards are located exclusively in the hills of the province of Bologna, or to be precise, entirely in the territories of Monteveglio, Savino, Castello di Serravalle, Monte San Pietro, Sasso Marconi, Marzabotto and Pianoro, and partially in the territories of Bazzano, Crespellano, Casalecchio di Reno, Bologna, San Lazzaro di Savena, Zola Predosa and Monterenzio. The wine and food route is located in the heart of the most representative areas, following an itinerary that starts in Casalecchio di Reno and Zola Predosa before heading into the hills as far as Savigno and returning to the edge of the plain at Bazzano.
DOC Colli Bolognesi regulations cover six white wines: Pignoletto, Pinot Bianco, Bianco, Riesling Italico, Sauvignon and Chardonnay; and three reds: Barbera, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.