Bologna Rolling Hills, Hiking Trails, Gourmet Food and Sparkling Wines

Emilia Delizia explores the wine and food traditions hidden among the spectacular rolling hills just 30 minutes south of Bologna.

Pignoletto: The Signature Wine of Bologna (With Lambrusco to Follow)

When you speak about wine in Bologna, you are speaking about Pignoletto DOC. Traditionally produced as a lightly sparkling wine, Pignoletto reflects the Emilia-Romagna preference for fresh, vibrant, food-friendly styles.

Unlike Lambrusco — which is red and sparkling — Pignoletto is a white wine: light, refreshing, with a subtle bitterness linked to the clay soils surrounding Bologna. It pairs beautifully with local dishes such as tagliatelle al ragù, lasagne, and tortellini. It is also considered one of the best aperitivo wines in Bologna, especially when served with Parmigiano Reggiano produced in the hills between Modena and Bologna.

We visited producers in Castello di Serravalle, a charming hilltop village where both Lambrusco and Pignoletto are crafted according to the sparkling traditions of the region.

The Colli Bolognesi Wine Route: Castles, Vineyards and Medieval Villages

The Colli Bolognesi wine route stretches between the Reno, Savena and Samoggia rivers. It offers medieval castles, churches, and panoramic vineyards — proving you don’t need to travel to Tuscany to experience idyllic Italian countryside.

For visitors staying in Bologna, these hills are easily explored in a day and are often combined with tastings of regional specialities. Many travellers choose to discover these landscapes as part of a guided Foodie’s Delight food and wine tour from Bologna, which includes visits to producers in Modena and the surrounding countryside.

Savigno: Truffles, Porcini and Traditional Osterias

If you enjoy exploring lesser-known corners of Emilia, an afternoon in Savigno is highly recommended. This charming village is famous for its annual truffle festival held in October and November.

A local institution is Da Amerigo, a restaurant known for seasonal dishes featuring generous shavings of truffle and carefully sourced ingredients.

Spilamberto: The Home of Traditional Balsamic Vinegar

Spilamberto, historically known as Spina Lamberti, is closely associated with the origins of Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena. Here you will find the official balsamic vinegar museum, where guided visits must be booked in advance.

This historic town is frequently included in our Modena food and balsamic vinegar tour from Bologna, allowing visitors to experience authentic acetaie and learn about the centuries-old ageing process.

Just two minutes from the Rangoni Castle, you’ll also find one of the area’s best gelato shops, known for using organic milk, eggs, and seasonal fruit — a perfect sweet ending to a day of culinary exploration.