As far as Italian wine culture goes, the wines from the Veneto are significant as the region is among Italy's most important when it comes to wine – both for quality and quantity. The northeast region plays host to two of the world's most famous and sought-after denominations among several other lesser-known rarities.
Let's start with Prosecco Superiore, whose production is divided between Conegliano-Valdobbiadene, a magnificent territory that UNESCO has recognized as a World Heritage Site, and Asolo, a smaller, though no less, distinguished appellation.
On the western side of the Veneto is Valpolicella, a land where four wines are obtained from the same mix of native red grapes Corvina, Rondinella, Molinara, and Corvinone. Amarone is a soft and full-bodied wine while the Ripasso is made with an ingenious technique. Valpolicella Classico is a fresh, harmonious, drinkable wine, and Recioto, the passito that beget Amarone.
Among the whites, those of Soave, made from the Garganega grape that's harvested in volcanic soils, are among the best in Italy. Lesser known, though not to be missed, are the Clarets from the Bardolino, the Classic Method sparkling wines of Durello, the Bordeaux-style reds made from Merlot and Cabernet in the Berici and Euganean Hills, and the Torcolato di Breganze, a passito of rare elegance and longevity.
So, on that note, here are five wines from the Veneto to keep an eye out for.
1. Montelvini Asolo Prosecco Superiore Brut
This fresh and fruity sparkler has aromas of wisteria and green apple. An excellent choice for an aperitivo, the wine has a structure that also pairs well with fish recipes. Try it with scallops au gratin. website
2. Bertani Soave Vintage 2019
The wine's inviting peach and gooseberry aromas surface on the palate along with a perfectly balanced flavor and softness. Enjoy it alongside chicken with mushrooms and polenta. website
3. Monte del Frà Superior Custoza Ca 'del Magro 2018
Crafted from a blend of Garganega, Trebbiano, Cortese, and Manzoni grapes, this intense white wine packs elegant floral aromas. Pair it with spaghetti alle vongole. website
4. Albino Armani Amarone della Valpolicella Classico 2016
From the Marano valley, this red combines power and freshness, with enchanting aromas of ripe fruit, spices, and coffee. It's great with stew. website
5. Cantina Maschio Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superior Millesimato Extra Dry
Equally sweet and acidic, this versatile Prosecco is suitable for countless occasions, from an aperitivo to alongside spicy fare. But the unsurpassed choice remains that of tradition: with pane e soprèssa (bread and salami). website
Cover photo: Sunset over the hills of Asolo, the area that's home to a Prosecco Superior DOCG. Credit: Getty Images/GitoTrevisan