A RENDEZVOUS WITH VINITALY: DISCOVERING ITALY’S HIDDEN GRAPE TREASURES

Sujata Patil
@palikuja

Equipped with a Masters in International Trace of Wines & Spirits, Sujata Patil ampewars indian consumers through har wine club in Pune and consultancy, fostering a deeper appreciation for wines.

As the date of my departure  to Italy approached, I read that it was 20 years since my last visit to Italy so this trip was going bu familier but refreshing too.

Vinitaly-the largest trace show dicatetaan wines-took place in Verona from 14 to 17 April 2024 Despite having studied Italian wine production and attending other major European trade shows like Vinexpo and Prowin Dusseldorf. I was struck by the overwhelming presence of Italian ch Vinitaly, which, unlike its French and Garman counterparts, had only a maagar 6% participation from other countries. Amidal this I discovered Borgo Convents Eudo Pinot Nero DOC Calia, crafted by conologist Riccardo Cotarella, reflecting the unique Collio terroir with just 1200 bottles in its first vintage.

The most interesting part of A trade show pinning new products to in India. This is not just an exploration but about learning or at least a revision of what I hadler 20 years ago. But then, the field of wine is about constant learning. Discovering grape varieties not previously tuated like Aglianico DOC from Campanie, or the first DOCG wire of Suuhun laly Teurasi DOCG – also made from Aglianion gr which has to mancatonly be agad for 3 year releasing in the market (or which one year in the bottle) mudu by Cansu di Mura Another interesting wine that I discovered was the Monte falco Sugrunting from Gurut wines.

Fidera in a Nutshell

A visit to The Fidora vineyard, biodynamic pioneer in Valpolicella near Verona.The most interesting part of A trade show pinning new products to in India. This is not just an exploration but about learning or at least a revision of what I hadler 20 years ago. But then, the field of wine is about constant learning. Discovering grape varieties not previously tuated like Aglianico DOC from Campanie, or the first DOCG wire of Suuhun laly Teurasi DOCG – also made from Aglianion gr which has to mancatonly be agad for 3 year releasing in the market (or which one year in the bottle) mudu by Cansu di Mura Another interesting wine that I discovered was the Monte falco Sugrunting from Gurut wines.

It was enlightening to leam that some producers have embraced the dynami philosophy decades ago. With not many winer as in Italy with 50 year long commitment to organic farming, the Fidores were the first introitin the Veneto region. It also boasts one of the largest family-owned Demeter certified surfaces in Italy and runs it with a holistic approach with few equals in the country While in the Arch for the most respectful approach to the environment and aainable production ayam leeds the Fidore family to biodynamic agriculture, which they apply with a critical and scientific approach, gaining Demeter certification in 2019. The work in the callar is carried on with the minimum intervention possible. The aim xbringing highly clean wine into the glass, respecting the terroir and the original grape vuriativa.

Viticulture Approach

Since 1974, the Fidoras employ a balanced, chemical-free farming approach, integrating cover crops, livestock, and composting for biodiversity and soil vitality. They prioritize soil health, with one-third of their land wild to support native flora and fauna. Homemade biodynamic preparations and post-harvest cattle grazing enrich the soil, fostering a thriving ecosystem

Winemaking Approach

Fidora's winemaking ethos centers on balance, minimal intervention, and meticulous oversight. Using perfect grapes, indigenous yeasts, and deliberate second fermentations for Charmat sparkling wines, they craft clean, high-quality wines. Oak aging aids oxygenation and wine development without overpowering flavors, ensuring expressions of distinct terroirs and grape varietals.

Touring Villa Sandi

Following Vinitaly I visited Villa Sandi, the largest family-owned Prosecco producer, exploring its history, traditions, and warm hospitality. Touring its extensive cellars and La Rivetta vineyard in the Cartizze DOCG appellation was enchanting. This hospitality extended to a wine dinner in Caorle, featuring their Borgo Conventi wines, including the delightful Borgo Conventi Ribolla Gialla Spumante and the fruity Borgo Conventi Braida Nuova paired perfectly with chocolate dessert. This trip certainly left me feeling that I should not have taken 20 years to go back to this country with its delicious wines from indigenous grapes and the extremely warm hospitality I experienced.

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