Where Wine meets the Wild: a journey through Valpolicella and Lessinia
The journey begins in the heart of Valpolicella, an area where every hill is an invitation to let go. Nestled in this landscape of the Lessini Mountains, just a few minutes’ walk from the medieval village of Molina di Fumane, lies the Molina Waterfalls Park – the perfect place to stroll nature and the tranquility of the woods, thanks to its perennial springs.
The enological tradition is deeply rooted here, particularly at Agriturismo Acinatico. Owned by the Accordini family for four generations, this wine relais produces a Valpolicella with unmistakable characteristics thanks to its unique “mountainous” soil.
Nearby, art and history of Valpolicella converge at Giardino di Pojega as a verdant masterpiece—one of the most captivating Italian gardens in Europe. The Giardino di Pojega is an integral part of the historic estate in Negrar di Valpolicella owned by the Guerrieri Rizzardi family, winemakers since 1649. Overlooking the 17th-century courtyard, you can choose from tasting options that combine the great classics of Valpolicella – such as Amarone and Ripasso – with a journey of discovery through a unique region, spanning Valpolicella and Lake Garda.
Designing the Lakeside Experience: A Journey Through Bardolino and Custoza
Moving toward Lake Garda, the landscape reveals the Bardolino Area. The terrain here was shaped by the ancient Garda Glacier, resulting in morainic-glacial soils rich in clay, gravel, and limestone. These conditions are ideal for native Corvina and Rondinella grapes, which give life to Bardolino DOC and the rosé Chiaretto.
Continuing inland, one enters the Custoza Area, a unique wine thanks to the peculiarities of the local grapes and its history of production, created in the moraine hills overlooking the lake, in nine municipalities of the Garda hinterland. The sloping topography and climate, mitigated by the presence of the lake, are the perfect setting for cultivating the grape varieties that characterise this aromatic white wine. The production is located in a beautiful territory, which combines natural beauty with the richness of history, culture and tradition. Lake Garda is nearby and gives the area its temperate breezes.
The stunning landscapes of the Custoza Morainic Hills can be explored through cycling tours that wind through the historic centers of charming villages like Borghetto sul Mincio and Custoza retracing the sites of the battles between the Austrian, Italian armies, with the evocative Custoza Ossuary as a backdrop.
The Golden Route: history and volcanic soil of Soave
For centuries, farmers and winemakers have formed the foundation of a local economy that has thrived and, unlike other areas, has not undergone industrial transformation or seen its breathtaking landscapes altered. A unique volcanic soil, combined with a mild climate, has proven to be the perfect conditions for producing fine wines.
For those seeking a dynamic connection with nature, the Soave vineyards can be explored on a two-hour horseback ride, an experience designed for everyone from beginners to experienced riders. This journey offers an immersive taste of the landscape before relaxing with a glass of Soave to discover local history and legend. For instance, a fascinating tale tells of a secret passage between Soave Castle and the Castle Cellar (Cantina del Castello) an ancient connection that is said to have given the cellar its name.
And you can’t miss a taste of Durello dei Lessini, made from the native Durella dei Monti Lessini grape variety, grown partly within the Lessinia Regional Nature Park but also in the easternmost valley of the province of Verona, the Val d’Alpone, produced by Fongaro Spumanti.
Dogi Plain: among rice fields and heartwarming recipes
Finally, the journey concludes south of Verona in the Dogi Plain. South of Verona, the plain stretches as far as the eye can see, and hidden among its rice fields, are secrets that evoke the flavors of home cooking. Here, Nano Vialone Veronese rice is the true star, transformed into dishes that capture the essence of rural tradition.
And to savor life, sharing the pleasure with those around you, a glass of wine is a must – a tradition well-represented in the area by the style and innovation of Cantina Annafrancesca in Legnago (Verona), which offers unique, elegant wines perfect for pairing on any occasion, particularly featuring risotto tastings upon request.
Verona’s territory offers a unique blend of natural beauty and deep-rooted traditions, a destination where every experience celebrates a rich, timeless heritage.
Text and photos courtesy of: https://www.destinationveronagarda.it/