Valtènesi and its wines

The Valtènesi is a winegrowing area located on the western shore of Lake Garda, in the province of Brescia, in Lombardy.

The area

It stretches across the municipalities of Desenzano, Moniga, Manerba, Polpenazze, Puegnago, Padenghe and Soiano, and enjoys a a mild, Mediterranean-style microclimate, thanks to the influence of the lake and the protection of the morainic hills.

It is the chosen home of the Groppello, an indigenous grape variety that gives rise to light, spicy red wines, and above all to Valtènesi Chiaretto, a delicate, fragrant rosé considered one of the best in Italy.

What is the Valtènesi wine district?

The DOC Valtènesi, established in 2011, protects wines based on Groppello as a single variety or in a blend with Marzemino, Sangiovese and Barbera.
The main types are:

• Valtènesi Rosso: soft, spicy, fresh, perfect for the everyday table

• Valtènesi Chiaretto: a fine, floral rosé, ideal as an aperitif or with light cooking

The Chiaretto tradition in this area dates back to the nineteenth century and is closely tied to the food culture of Lake Garda.

Characteristics of Valtènesi Wines

Colour

• Red: Pale ruby, with purple highlights in the young wines.

• Chiaretto: Pale pink or light cherry pink, bright.

Aromas

• Red: Fresh red fruit, white pepper, violet, aromatic herbs.

• Chiaretto: Dog rose, cherry, raspberry, citrus notes.

Palate

• Red: Fresh, easy-flowing, with fine tannin and delicate spice.

• Chiaretto: Savoury, balanced, very drinkable.

Typical Grape Varieties of the Valtènesi

Black Grape

• Groppello (Gentile and Mocasina): the signature grape variety of the area

• Marzemino

• Sangiovese

• Barbera

Why choose a wine from the Valtènesi?

• Benchmark Chiaretto in Italy for finesse and freshness

• Light, versatile and food-friendly reds

• Productions tied to unique indigenous grape varieties

• A perfect marriage of tradition and modernity