Cococcioliamoci

Cococcioliamoci, the signature wine of Ari

In the heart of the Teatine hills, the small town of Ari (Province of Chieti, Abruzzo) celebrates its most representative grape variety every summer with Cococcioliamoci, one of the premier food and wine events in the Frentano territory. Established in 2014 by the Ari Pro Loco, the festival is dedicated to Cococciola, an indigenous white grape long used to blend with other wines and only vinified on its own in recent decades, now a source of pride for the entire region.

A tasting trail in the historic center

Throughout the event, the medieval village of Ari turns into a grand food and wine trail: along the alleys and small squares of the historic center, winery stands offer Cococciola in both still and sparkling versions. From an initial participation of seven Cococciola IGT producers, the event has grown to bring together over thirty wineries from all four provinces of Abruzzo, making Cococcioliamoci a comprehensive showcase of the grape.

Peasant cuisine and tradition

The culinary offerings are entirely managed by the Pro Loco and highlight traditional peasant recipes. The event's culinary symbol is the Papparella (or Papprima), a humble dish made with wild greens, corn, and ferfellone, a typical ingredient of Ari. There is no shortage of pallotte cacio e ova (cheese and egg balls), arrosticini, and other local products, paired with local cheeses and cured meats along the entire tasting route.

Art, music, and culture

Cococcioliamoci is not just about wine and food: the route is enriched by exhibitions, art installations, paintings, performances, and crafts, while the calendar includes conferences on the development of rural areas, live music, and DJ sets that bring the village to life until late at night. During the festival, the resident population multiplies, with thousands of enthusiasts and visitors reaching Ari from all over Abruzzo and beyond.

A key event in the province of Chieti

Linked to the culture of the Costa dei Trabocchi and Frentano traditions, Cococciola tells the story of a land of sea and hills through its citrusy and savory character. Cococcioliamoci is its most authentic celebration: a mid-July weekend that unites food, wine, culture, and community in one of the most characteristic villages of the Teatine Sub-Apennines.