Valpolicella Italy is part of what defines the country: Beyond history, charming squares, and the romantic atmosphere of Italy, another of the country’s greatest appeals is wine. Some regions are more famous than others, but if you’re looking to explore wine during a visit to Verona, look no farther than Valpolicella. Located east of Lake Garda, this viticultural zone is second in wine production after only Chianti. Any Valpolicella travel guide will suggest exploring the wide cultural offerings of Verona, including the Verona Arena, museums, and churches, but after the sightseeing is done, nothing starts an evening like sitting down with a glass of wine.

The most famous of all wines from Valpolicella Italy is the coveted Amarone. This strong wine is made from dried grapes. While Amarone is one of the best known, there are also many other wines that are produced in this region. A good Valpolicella travel guide will also reveal that many wines here can be drank early, in some instances only a few weeks after harvest. These wines have a light, fragrant nature to them. Many people consider this to be great table wine, while others prefer the strength of Amarone.

Similar to many traditions in the region, winemaking has existed in Valpolicella Italy since the time of the ancient Greeks. This region is now called “The Pearl of Verona” and is often toured in combination with the beautiful city. During a wine tour you will taste everything that is produced in the region, from the young wines to Amarone to sweet dessert wines. Tours will also reveal historic details about the wine, such as the fact that the method used to make Amarone (using dried grapes) actually dates back to a method of the ancient Greeks. A tour of the region wouldn’t be complete without visiting Lake Garda as well; a gorgeous backdrop for enjoying a glass of local wine.

Verona Map

A Valpolicella travel guide should tell visitors that this region is located in the Veneto region of Italy, which is famous for many wines, especially Prosecco. Unlike other areas of the Veneto, wines produced in the Valpolicella region are all red wines. The grape varieties are mostly Italian varieties that unless you are a wine connoisseur wouldn’t ring a bell, with the exception of Sangiovese and Barbera. Alcohol levels vary in these wines as well. The younger wines can have approximately 11 percent alcohol while some of the more full-bodied reds can have 15 to 16 percent alcohol. Be sure to read the labels at wine tastings to know what you’re drinking and how strong it is.

Part of the pleasure of any tour of the wineries is tasting the wine in the region it was grown. When you pop a bottle of Amarone at home, after several years of aging, you will appreciate its full-bodied nature after touring the vineyards and seeing the love and care that goes into producing this wine. Understanding the climate, the soil, and other influences will only help you appreciate this wine even further. This wine tour might make you want to explore other wine regions of Italy as well, and many can also be combined with charming cities similar to Verona.