History of Valpolicella: a journey into the heart of wine
Valpolicella is one of Italy’s most prestigious wine regions, a land where some of the world’s most beloved and renowned wines were born. Located in north-east Italy in Veneto region, among the gentle hills of Verona (the city of Romeo and Juliet), Valpolicella is a place where winemaking tradition intertwines with history, creating a unique enological heritage. In this journey into the heart of wine, we will explore the roots of this land, its winemaking tradition and the Monteci vineyards, located in the classic zone between San Pietro in Cariano and the Fumane valley.
The origins of Valpolicella: a land of ancient wines
The winemaking history of Valpolicella dates back thousands of years. The first signs of vine cultivation in the region go back to ancient times when the Romans already appreciated the wines of Valpolicella. The name Valpolicella comes from the Latin vallis polis cellae, meaning "valley of many cellars," a testament to the region's deep-rooted wine tradition. Over the centuries, Valpolicella has remained one of the most important wine regions, where the quality of wine and its production have always been considered a heritage to preserve.
The winemaking tradition of Valpolicella
Valpolicella is famous for its winemaking tradition, which has given rise to wines of great prestige. Among these, Valpolicella Classico stands out as a fresh and fruity red wine, a true expression of the region’s historic wine area. It is characterized by a pleasant acidity, accompanied by aromas of cherry, plum, and spices, making it a versatile choice that pairs well with Mediterranean cuisine.
Valpolicella Classico Superiore, on the other hand, represents a more structured and complex version of Valpolicella Classico. To produce this wine, the grapes are left to ripen longer, and the wine ages for at least a year, resulting in greater intensity and aromatic richness. Valpolicella Classico Superiore has deeper flavours, with notes of ripe red fruits, aromatic herbs and spices. Perfect for pairing with richer dishes, such as red meats and aged cheeses, it is ideal for those seeking a wine with character without sacrificing freshness.
The most famous wine of the region is with no doubt Amarone della Valpolicella, a bold and complex red wine made using appassimento, the traditional grape drying technique. Amarone is the result of a long process in which native grape varieties—Corvina, Corvinone, and Rondinella—are left to dry in lofts before fermentation, creating a wine rich in aromas and intense flavours.
Alongside Amarone, Valpolicella is also known for Ripasso, a wine made by re-fermenting Valpolicella wine on Amarone grape skins, giving it more body and complexity. Finally, Recioto della Valpolicella, a sweet wine made from the same grape varieties, is prized for its smoothness and fruity aromas, making it a perfect match for desserts.
The classic zone of Valpolicella: the historic heart of wine
Valpolicella Classica represents the historic heart of the region, an area that includes the municipalities of Negrar, San Pietro in Cariano, Fumane, Marano di Valpolicella, and Sant’Ambrogio di Valpolicella. This zone, known for its rolling hills and climate ideal for viticulture, is home to some of Valpolicella’s finest wines, including Amarone. The quality of the grapes is influenced by the diversity of the soils and the presence of microclimates perfect for vine growing.
The landscape, with its terraced vineyards, offers breathtaking views, blending natural beauty with agricultural tradition. The Monteci vineyards, nestled between the hills of San Pietro in Cariano and the Fumane valley, benefit from a strategic location that allows to produce wines of the highest quality, perfectly reflecting the characteristics of the territory.
Valpolicella, with its rich history and winemaking tradition, remains one of Italy’s most fascinating wine regions. Every bottle produced here tells a story of dedication, passion, and love for the land, offering an authentic and unique experience in the heart of Valpolicella.
If you wish to discover the beauty of Valpolicella and taste the wines born from this land, we invite you to visit our winery, where the history of wine continues to be written every day.