Wines of Veneto

Veneto Wine Denomination

Veneto is one of Italy's most renowned wine regions, with a vast array of native grape varieties and designations of origin that testify to its richness and diversity. In this article, we'll discover Veneto's winemaking treasures, exploring grape varieties, classifications, the most iconic red and white wines, production methods, food pairings, and much more.

The Veneto region

History

Viticulture in the Veneto region has ancient origins, dating back to Roman times. Over the centuries, vine cultivation has developed and consolidated, producing highly prestigious and internationally recognized wines.

Geography

Veneto is located in northeastern Italy, stretching from the Dolomites to the Venice Lagoon. The region boasts a remarkable diversity of landscapes and terroirs, which is reflected in the variety of wines produced.

Climate

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

Native vines

Garganega

Garganega is the most widespread white grape variety in the Veneto region, used primarily for the production of Soave. Wines made from Garganega are fresh, elegant, and aromatic, with notes of white flowers and white-fleshed fruit.

Corvina

Corvina is a typical red grape variety from the Veneto region, primarily used in the production of Amarone della Valpolicella and Valpolicella Ripasso. Wines made with Corvina are characterized by good structure, soft tannins, and fruity and spicy notes.

Raboso

Raboso is another native red grape variety from Veneto, known for its acidity andTannicity. Wines made from Raboso are intense, persistent, and long-lived, ideal for aging.

Wine classifications

DOCG

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

DOC

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

IGT

Finally, wines that do not fall under the DOC and DOCG designations can be classified as IGT (Indicazione Geografica Tipica) Veneto, a more flexible category that allows for 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, made from dried grapes fermented to achieve a high concentration of sugar and alcohol. It has notes of dried fruit, spices, and chocolate, with a long, lingering finish.

Bardolino

Bardolino is a light, fruity red wine, made primarily from Corvina and Rondinella grapes. It is characterized by its freshness and drinkability, with notes of cherry and red berries.

Valpolicella Ripasso

Valpolicella Ripasso is a red wine made through a "ripasso" process, the fermentation of Valpolicella on Amarone pomace. The result is a fuller-bodied and complex wine, with notes of ripe fruit, spice, and tobacco.

White wines from Veneto

Sweet

Soave is a dry, minerally white wine, made primarily from Garganega grapes. It has floral notes of white fruit and almond, with a fresh, savory finish.

Prosecco

Prosecco is a sparkling white wine made from Glera grapes and fermented using the Charmat method. It features a creamy foam, notes of flowers and fresh fruit, and a smooth, pleasant finish.

Lugana

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

Production method

Withering

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

Charmat Method

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

Classic Method

The classic method, used for some Venetian 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

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

Visits to the cellars

If you're interested in discovering Veneto's wines and producers firsthand, you can organize guided tours of the wineries and tastings directly in the vineyards. This is an excellent opportunity to appreciate the beauty of the area and meet the people who, with passion and dedication, continue the region's winemaking tradition.

Veneto is a land of unique and fascinating wines, the fruit of a long tradition and an extraordinary terroir. From discovering native grape varieties to visiting wineries, immerse yourself in the culture and flavors of this captivating Italian region and let yourself be captivated by its wines.

What are the most important native grape varieties of Veneto?

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

What is the difference between DOCG, DOC and IGT?

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

What are some of the most famous red and white wines from the Veneto region?

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

What production methods are used in the Veneto region?

In Veneto, various production methods are used, including appassimento, the Charmat method, and the Classic method.

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

Yes, many wineries offer guided tours and tastings. Directly at the vineyards. We recommend contacting the wineries to arrange a visit and enjoy an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Veneto region.