Just fifteen minutes east of Verona, nestled in the rolling hills of Marcellise, lies Terre di Pietra, a winery redefining wine tourism through a profound commitment to sustainability. Stewarded with love by Cristiano, Anna, and Alice, this family-run estate represents a deeply ethical approach to agriculture and human connection.
At Terre di Pietra – Best Of Wine Tourism Award 2026 in the category “Sustainable Wine Tourism Practices” – wine is the heart of the project, but biodiversity is its true soul.
Operating strictly without heavy machinery or synthetic chemicals, the family champions a purely natural way of farming. Rooted in a traditional interpretation of the Valpolicella region, their artisanal winemaking allows the authentic nature of the Marcellise valley to speak clearly through every single glass. Their vision extends far beyond the vines through the practice of permaculture, seamlessly integrating olive, cherry, and apple trees with a thriving vegetable garden right in the middle of the vineyard. This holistic ecosystem allows visitors to experience sustainable agriculture firsthand.
The vibrant core of the winery’s social mission is the Farmers’ Market (Mercato della Terra di Marcellise), hosted every Friday afternoon in collaboration with Slow Food. This weekly event transforms the estate into a bustling public square, gathering 10 to 15 small local farmers and artisans who offer seasonal vegetables, ancient grains, and traditional crafts. It creates a vital short supply chain, directly connecting the urban public with the dedicated producers who protect and nourish the Veronese landscape.
Enotourism here is not just an observation; it is an immersive, collective experience. Visitors are actively welcomed into the family’s daily life and social activities. During lively gatherings in the estate’s garden, the space comes alive with music, workshops, and shared conviviality. Guests can relax with a glass of natural wine paired perfectly with a hot slice of artisanal pizza, zero-kilometer ingredients sourced straight from the vineyard’s garden and the local market community.
Terre di Pietra proves that innovative hospitality relies on sustainability, inclusivity, and local engagement. It is more than a winery; it is an ethical laboratory where every sip tells the story of the land.
Photo credits: courtesy of Terre di Pietra