Wines of Veneto

Denomination Wines of the Veneto

Veneto is one of the most renowned Italian regions for the production of wine, with a vast range of native vines and denominations of origin that testify to its richness and variety. In this article, we will discover the enological treasures of the Veneto, exploring the grape varieties, classifications, the most representative red and white wines, production methods, food pairings and much more.

The Veneto region

History

Viticulture in the Veneto has very ancient origins, dating back to Roman times. Over the centuries, the cultivation of vines has developed and consolidated, resulting in wines of great prestige and international recognition.

Geography

Veneto is located in the north-east of Italy and extends from the Dolomites to the Venice lagoon. The region has a remarkable diversity of landscapes and terroirs, which is reflected in the variety of wines produced.

Climate

The climate of the Veneto is characterized by cold, rainy winters and hot, humid summers, with considerable temperature variations between day and night. These climatic conditions favor the ripening of the grapes and the expression of complex aromas and flavours.

Native vines

Garganega

Garganega is the most widespread white grape variety in the Veneto region, mainly used for the production of Soave. The wines obtained from the Garganega are fresh, elegant and aromatic, with notes of white flowers and white pulp fruit.

Raven

Corvina is a typical red grape of the Veneto region, used above all in the production of Amarone della Valpolicella and Valpolicella Ripasso. The wines produced with Corvina are characterized by a good structure, soft tannins and fruity and spicy notes.

Raboso

Raboso is another native red grape variety from the Veneto region, known for its acidity andtannins. The wines obtained from Raboso are intense, persistent and long-lived, ideal for ageing.

Wine classifications

DOCG

Veneto has numerous wines classified as DOCG (Denomination of Controlled and Guaranteed Origin), including Amarone della Valpolicella, Recioto di Soave and Prosecco Superiore di Conegliano-Valdobbiadene.

DOC

The region also boasts several DOC denominations (Controlled Designation of Origin), such as Bardolino, Valpolicella, Soave and Lugana, which attest to the quality and typicality of the wines produced.

IGT extension

Finally, wines that do not fall under the DOC and DOCG denominations can be classified as IGT (Indicazione Geografica Tipica) Veneto, a more flexible category that allows the use of a wider range of grape varieties and production methods.

Red wines from Veneto

Amarone della Valpolicella

Amarone della Valpolicella is a full-bodied and structured red wine, produced with dried and fermented grapes to obtain a high concentration of sugars and alcohol. It has notes of dried fruit, spices and chocolate, with a long and persistent finish.

Bardolino

Bardolino is a light and fruity red wine, mainly produced with Corvina and Rondinella grapes. It is characterized by its freshness and drinkability, with notes of cherry and red fruits.

Valpolicella Ripasso

Valpolicella Ripasso is a red wine obtained through a "ripasso" process, i.e. the fermentation of Valpolicella on Amarone pomace. The result is a more full-bodied and complex wine, with notes of ripe fruit, spices and tobacco.

White wines of the Veneto

Sweet

Soave is a dry and mineral white wine, mainly produced with Garganega grapes. It has floral, white-fleshed fruit and almond notes, with a fresh and savory finish.

Prosecco

Prosecco is a sparkling white wine, produced with Glera grapes and fermented according to the Charmat method. It is characterized by a creamy froth, notes of flowers and fresh fruit and a soft and pleasant finish.

Lugano

Lugana is a white wine produced with Turbiana grapes, grown in the area between Veneto and Lombardy. It is an elegant and refined wine, with notes of white flowers, fruit and minerals.

Production method

Withering

Appassimento is a drying process of the grapes, used in the production of Amarone della Valpolicella and Recioto di Soave. The dried grapes concentrate the sugars and aromas, giving the wines a unique and distinctive character.

Charmat method

The Charmat method is used for the production of Prosecco and involves a second fermentation in an autoclave, which gives the wine its characteristic effervescence.

Classic method

The classic method, used for some Veneto sparkling wines such as Prosecco Superiore di Conegliano-Valdobbiadene, involves a second fermentation in the bottle and a period of aging on the lees, which gives the wine greater complexity and finesse.

Food pairings

The wines of Veneto go perfectly with the local cuisine, rich in flavors and traditions. Red wines, such as Amarone and Valpolicella Ripasso, go well with meat and game dishes, while white wines, such as Soave and Lugana, go well with fish and vegetable dishes.

Visits to cellars

If you are interested in discovering the wines and producers of the Veneto in person, you can organize guided tours of the cellars and tastings directly at the vineyards. This is an excellent opportunity to appreciate the beauty of the area and get to know the people who, with passion and dedication, carry on the winemaking tradition of the region.

Veneto is a land of unique and fascinating wines, the result of a long tradition and an extraordinary territory. From the discovery of native vines to visits to cellars, immerse yourself in the culture and flavors of this fascinating Italian region and let yourself be conquered by its wines.

What are the most important native vines of the Veneto region?

Garganega, Corvina and Raboso are the most representative native vines of the region.

What is the difference between DOCG, DOC and IGT?

The DOCG guarantees the origin and quality of the wines produced in a specific geographical area, the DOC indicates a wider geographical origin and greater flexibility in the choice of grape varieties and production methods, while the IGT allows for an even wider range of vines and production methods.

What are some of the best known red and white wines of the Veneto region?

Among the red wines, Amarone della Valpolicella, Bardolino and Valpolicella Ripasso are highly appreciated. As for white wines, Soave, Prosecco and Lugana are among the best known.

What production methods are used in the Veneto region?

Different production methods are used in the Veneto region, including appassimento, the Charmat method and the Classic method.

Is it possible to visit the cellars and taste the wines of the Veneto region?

Yes, many wineries offer guided tours and tastings directly at the vineyards. It is advisable to contact the cellars to organize a visit and enjoy an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Veneto region.