Rive

The word used to distinguish small, hand-tended vineyards grown on special steeply sloped hills in the area where Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore can be made. There are 43 such communes where Proseccos can have Rive status. The geology of the Rive (a result of glacial movements by the Alps as well as the desiccation of ancient seabeds) is quite amazing. Each Rive has a narrow crest and then slopes precipitously downward on both sides. Most vineyards are planted on what is considered the “front” slope, which, over centuries, has been worn away to reveal varying layers of rock and soil. Wines designated as “Rive” are highly sought after by lovers of Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore, and tend to be a bit more expensive. The word Rive will be listed on the label along with the commune’s name.