Valtènesi region
Situated on the Brescia shore of Lake Garda, Valtènesi is a region rich in history, culture and spectacular scenery. Also known as the “Lemon Riviera”, this area has a strong proclivity for agriculture, particularly the production of wine, oil and citrus fruits. Let’s explore this unique terroir.
The history of the Valtènesi region
The Valtènesi region has been shaped by historical events, cultural influences and changing landscapes, which have helped to define its unique identity. The first traces of human settlements date back to the Bronze Age, as evidenced by archaeological findings discovered in the Manerba del Garda area. During the 1st century BC, the Romans introduced wine and olive cultivation, laying the foundations for the agriculture that still thrives in the region today.
After the fall of the Roman Empire, Valtènesi was ruled by the Longobards, the Franks and, from the 10th century, the Scaligers. In this period, numerous castles and fortified towns were established, like Manerba, Sirmione and Lonato, which still dominate the landscape today.
The Middle Ages was a period of marked cultural and religious unrest: Valtènesi became an important centre for pilgrimage, while during the course of the Renaissance, Valtènesi fell under rule of the Republic of Venice, which boosted its economic and cultural development, and the region became a holiday destination for the nobility and intellectuals.
After the fall of the Republic of Venice in the 18th century, Valtènesi moved under Austrian rule: agriculture continued to play a central role in the local economy, with the production of wine, oil, citrus fruits and cereals.
Finally, the 19th and 20th centuries were periods of huge transformation. The construction of railways and roads favoured tourism and trade, and Valtènesi became a destination renowned for its beautiful scenery and mild climate.
Where is Valtènesi wine made?
Wine production in Valtènesi has a long tradition that dates back to the Roman Empire. Thriving grape varieties span the sun-drenched hills, enjoying a unique microclimate boosted by the presence of the lake.
The area is home to the Valtènesi DOC zone, which protects the production of high-quality red and rosé wines. Groppello and Marzemino are two of the finest grape varieties in the area.
Valtènesi is a vast area stretching from Desenzano del Garda to Salò, covering almost the entire Brescia shore of the lake. The Valtènesi DOC wine production zone includes the following municipalities: Salò, Roè Volciano, Villanuova sul Clisi, Gavardo, San Felice del Benaco, Puegnago del Garda, Muscoline, Manerba del Garda, Polpenazze del Garda, Moniga del Garda, Soiano del Lago, Calvagese della Riviera, Padenghe sul Garda and Bedizzole. It also includes part of the municipalities of Lonato del Garda and Desenzano del Garda.
The terroir of the Valtènesi area
The terroir of Valtènesi offers interesting characteristics that give the wines a unique character:
- Climate: the moderate Mediterranean climate influenced by the lake favours the optimal ripening of the grapes, ensuring a perfect balance of sugar content and acidity;
- Soil: the predominantly marl and limestone soil, with a good presence of very fine gravel, gives the wines structure, minerality and complexity;
- Grape varieties: native grape varieties like Groppello adapt to the region’s characteristics, expressing their potential to the full.
But there’s more to Valtènesi than the production of exquisite wines. The region offers visitors stunning vistas of green hills, picturesque villages and charming views of Lake Garda. A complete sensory experience that combines the pleasure of wine tasting with the joy of discovering a region rich in history, culture and natural beauty.