Valpolicella is a name that wine lovers around the world instantly recognise. With its rolling vineyards and historic villages, this region offers a rich cultural experience that promises to leave a lasting impression.
Conveniently located near Lake Garda, Valpolicella makes for an ideal day trip during your holiday. And even if wine isn’t your main interest, Valpolicella is the perfect destination for anyone wanting to soak in the beauty of the Italian countryside.
Speaking of wine, however, did we mention there are over 400 vineyards and wineries in Valpolicella? While we don’t recommend visiting them all in one trip, a vineyard tour should definitely be on your list of things to do in Valpolicella.
Origin of Wine in Valpolicella
Valpolicella has a deep-rooted history in winemaking, dating back to Roman times. The region’s name is believed to derive from the Latin phrase ‘val polis cellae’, meaning “the valley of many cellars,” which speaks to its long-standing tradition in wine production.
Over the centuries, Valpolicella has become synonymous with some of Italy’s finest wines, including the famous Amarone della Valpolicella. The area’s unique climate and soil composition create the perfect conditions for growing Corvina, Rondinella, and Molinara grapes, which are the foundation of Valpolicella wine.
Main Vineyards and Wineries in Valpolicella
Valpolicella is home to hundreds of vineyards and wineries, each offering a unique take on the region’s famous wines. Below are some of the most renowned wineries you should consider visiting.
Tommasi Viticoltori
Tommasi Viticoltori is one of the most iconic wineries in Valpolicella, with a history that dates back to 1902. This family-run estate has become a symbol of quality and tradition in the Valpolicella region, known especially for its Amarone della Valpolicella.
Tours and Tastings:
Tommasi offers a range of guided tours that give visitors a first-hand look into the winemaking process, from vineyard to bottle. A standard tour includes a visit to the vineyards, the historic cellars, and a tasting of three of their wines, including the famous Amarone della Valpolicella.
- Price: €25 per person
- Duration: 45 minutes
- Availability: Tours are available Monday through Saturday, with several time slots throughout the day. Advanced booking is recommended, especially during peak season.
- Other tour options: Tommasi offers a range of tour options to suit all tastes. There’s even a couple’s “Wellness and Wine Tasting” tour which includes a day at the Terme della Valpolicella SPA. Prices start from €140 per couple.
For more information on their full list of tours and wine tastings, visit the Tommasi Viticoltori website.
Allegrini
Allegrini is a leading name in Valpolicella, with a reputation for innovation and excellence in winemaking. The Allegrini family has been producing wine for over four centuries, and their estate is a perfect blend of modern techniques and respect for tradition.
Tours and Tastings:
Allegrini offers several types of tours, each tailored to different levels of wine interest. The “Wine Experience” includes a cellar tour and tasting of four wines, including their flagship Amarone della Valpolicella.
- Price: €30 per person
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Availability: Tours are available Monday to Friday, with morning and afternoon sessions. Saturday tours are available upon request.
- Special Experience: For those interested in a more in-depth experience, Allegrini offers “The Art of Winemaking” tour for €70 per person. This tour includes a tour of the historic cellar and a technical tasting of six wines, guided by their own winemaker.
For a full list of tours and wine tastings, visit the Allegrini website.
Tenuta Santa Maria di Gaetano Bertani
Tenuta Santa Maria di Gaetano Bertani is a historic private estate that beautifully blends tradition with innovation. The Bertani family has been a cornerstone of winemaking in Valpolicella for centuries, and their commitment to producing high-quality wines is evident in every bottle. The estate is also renowned for its stunning villa and gardens, offering visitors a truly immersive experience.
Tours and Tastings:
Tenuta Santa Maria offers a variety of tours that cater to both casual visitors and serious wine enthusiasts. The “Tour with ‘Tradition’ Wine Tasting” includes a guided visit to the estate’s vineyards, the gravity-flow wine cellars, and a tasting of four wines.
- Price: €26 per person
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Availability: Tours are available Monday through Saturday (Sunday tours are also available from April to October), with booking times in the morning and early afternoon (between 10 am and 4 pm). Reservations are recommended to ensure availability.
- Special Experience: For a more exclusive experience, the estate offers a “Private Tour and ‘Vertica;’ Wine Tasting” starting from €130 per group (min. 4 people). This involves a guided tour of the estate, including a private reserved room, where guests can explore the estate’s history, gardens, and gravity-flow cellars. Customisation is available to suit specific preferences.
See the Tenuta Santa María di Gaetano Bertani website for full tour options and information.
Types of Wine from Valpolicella
Valpolicella is celebrated for its diverse range of wines, each with its own distinct character.
The most famous is Amarone della Valpolicella, a rich, full-bodied red wine made from partially dried grapes. This process, known as ‘appassimento’, concentrates the flavours, resulting in a wine that is both powerful and elegant. Amarone pairs beautifully with hearty dishes, making it a favourite among food and wine enthusiasts.
Valpolicella Ripasso is another standout, often referred to as the “baby Amarone.” This wine undergoes a second fermentation with the leftover grape skins from Amarone, giving it more depth and complexity than a standard Valpolicella. It’s a versatile wine that can be enjoyed with a variety of dishes or on its own.
For those who prefer something lighter, there’s the classic Valpolicella wine. This fresh and fruity red is perfect for casual sipping and pairs wonderfully with a range of foods, from pasta to grilled meats. Each of these wines offers a unique taste of Valpolicella, making the region a must-visit for any wine lover.
Wine Events and Festivals in Valpolicella
If you’re planning a trip to Valpolicella, timing your visit with one of the region’s many wine events and festivals can add an extra layer of enjoyment to your experience.
The Palio del Recioto e dell’Amarone is a highlight, celebrating the region’s winemaking heritage with tastings, competitions, and traditional music. This annual event, held around Easter, offers visitors a chance to sample the best Amarone della Valpolicella and Valpolicella Ripasso wines, while mingling with local producers and fellow wine lovers.
Another event worth attending is the Anteprima Amarone, typically held in January/February. This exclusive preview of the latest Amarone vintage attracts wine critics, journalists, and enthusiasts from around the world. It’s a fantastic opportunity to discover new wines and meet the winemakers behind them.
How to Get to Valpolicella
Reaching Valpolicella is relatively straightforward, especially if you’re staying near Lake Garda. The region is well-connected by road, with Verona being the closest major city. From Verona, it’s just a short drive or bus ride to the heart of Valpolicella.
If you’re flying in, Verona’s Villafranca Airport is the nearest, offering connections to many European cities.
For those who prefer public transport, trains run regularly from Verona to nearby towns such as Negrar and San Pietro in Cariano, from where you can easily access the local vineyards and wineries.
Renting a car is also a great option, giving you the freedom to explore Valpolicella’s picturesque villages and scenic countryside at your own pace.
Experience Valpolicella for yourself!
Valpolicella is more than just a wine region; it’s a true reflection of Italian culture, history, and hospitality. Whether you’re enjoying a glass of Amarone, exploring vineyards, or admiring the landscapes, Valpolicella promises an experience to remember.
Make your visit even more special by booking your stay with Domus Rental. Our luxurious villas, apartments, and chalets near Lake Garda are the perfect base for exploring this beautiful region.
