Best Wineries & Vineyards in Lake Garda

Best Wineries & Vineyards in Lake Garda

Let’s dive in Best Wineries & Vineyards in Lake Garda. Sip Superior Vintages at Lake Garda’s Top Wineries

Dotted along the shores and rolling hills surrounding Lake Garda lies one of Italy’s premier wine regions. The temperate climate, glacial soils and mountainous terrain create ideal conditions for cultivating grapes and producing world-class wines in a breathtaking setting.

Lake Garda provides the perfect area for wine tourism, allowing visitors to pair sipping superior vintages with admiring vine-covered vistas. Below we detail the leading wineries and vineyards that should be on the itinerary of any wine lover vacationing on Lake Garda. Slainte!

Villa Calicantus

Nestled on a hillside in the hamlet of Calicanto sits the boutique winery Villa Calicantus. This small producer focuses on crafting quality over quantity, harvesting grapes by hand from their oldest vines.

The winery and tasting room provides panoramic views overlooking Bardolino and Lake Garda from the outdoor terrace. Visitors can sample fresh, fruity wines like Bardolino Chiaretto and Bianco di Calicantus paired with cheeseboards and cured meats.

Villa Calicantus embraces sustainability – they utilize gravity-flow production, avoid chemicals, and implement solar panels and recycling. Their passion for winemaking respecting the earth shines through in every velvety sip.

Cantina Zeni e Museo del Vino

In the heart of Lugana D.O.C. appellation you’ll find Cantina Zeni, a family-run winery entering its 9th generation since 1670. The Zenis played a key role establishing Lugana, the Trebbiano grape cultivated around Lake Garda’s southern shores.

At Cantina Zeni’s HQ, guests can tour the old cellar, vintages museum, bottling line and ageing room before relaxing in the panoramic tasting gallery. Be sure to sample their Riserva Dindarello Lugana crafted from the region’s unique white grape.

Cascina Maddalena

Situated in lovely Lazise on Lake Garda, Cascina Maddalena’s cellars contain ancient Roman olive presses hinting at the estate’s centuries of winemaking tradition.

Their expert oenologists now harvest native varietals like Corvina along with international grapes for wine production respecting local terroir. Schedule a tasting in Lazise to try limited edition wines like Tai Rosso IGT – Maddalena alongside regional pairings.

Onepiò Winery

Onepiò crafts organic DOCs and IGTs through natural and sustainable practices at their sleek, modern winery in Borghetto. Visitors to the contemporary space can sample unfiltered orange wines, Franciacorta DOCG, Lugana DOC and rose in the tasting room dramatically suspended amidst barrel vaults.

Join a tour of Onepiò’s subterranean cellar, see the arboreal installation, and explore wines honoring Lake Garda’s rich history as a premier wine destination. Don’t miss their sparkling Franciacorta Spumante to add some bubbly to your tasting.

Montonale

Montonale brings wine production back to Bardolino Classico with their vineyard sitting on the eastern shores of Lake Garda facing brilliant sun exposure. The winery focuses exclusively on Corvina grapes cultivated in the morainic hills using sustainable methods.

Book a visit to walk among Montonale’s vines and gain insight into specialized cultivation in Bardolino. Afterwards, head to the modern tasting room to sample unoaked, food-friendly reds and rosés representative of this ideal growing region.

Cà dei Frati

Atop a morainic ridge in Lugana D.O.C. you’ll discover Cà dei Frati, where an intimate cellar houses old vintages aged to perfection. Their production honors historic winemaking entwined with innovation under the direction of the Dal Cero family.

Tour the grounds and cellars before indulging in sophisticated tastes of Lugana Tre Filari, Riserva Dal Cero, and sweet I Frati passito. Ca’ dei Frati promises a sublime wine experience in the hills where Lugana thrives.

Casello Bondoni

Three generations of women have led Casello Bondoni in Peschiera del Garda, producing Lugana DOC, Bardolino DOC and Chiaretto within view of Lake Garda. Their tasting room sits like an alpine lodge in the hills where guests can enjoy food pairings with award-winning rosés and whites.

Combine visiting Casello Bondoni’s welcoming space with exploring the San Benedetto church and abbey remains onsite from the 12th century – the perfect mix of history and hospitality.

Azienda Agricola Sgreva

Located near picturesque Gargnano and its lemon groves, Sgreva is an innovative winery that harnesses geothermal energy for production. Their research into indigenous grapes helps preserve a legacy of Lombard winemaking dating back centuries.

Book a tour and tasting to learn about reviving nearly lost ancient varietals. Favorites include Groppello Gentile and Erbamat, along with bold reds Montepizzolo and Santa Maria. Sgreva delivers fascinating wines that let you truly taste this corner of Lake Garda.

Guerrieri Rizzardi Cantina

Housed in a converted silk factory in picturesque Bardolino, family-run Guerrieri Rizzardi Cantina focuses on quality wines that express the unique Bardolino terroir. Their vineyards benefit from Lake Garda’s temperate microclimate, crafting elegant Bardolino Classicos and Chiarettos.

The winery offers various tastings with small plates paired to complement their fresh, easy drinking wines. Visitors can also explore interactive exhibits on the winemaking process for a well-rounded educational experience.

Cantina Avanzi

Following four generations, Cantina Avanzi carries on a lineage of winemaking tradition in the hills overlooking Lake Garda. Their 59 hectares of vineyards mainly grow native grapes like Garganega, Corvina and Molinara.

Guests can sample award-winning Soave Classico and Amarone della Valpolicella alongside charcuterie and cheeses on their veranda with sweeping lake views. It’s the perfect place to sip Avanzi’s velvety red San Zeno, produced exclusively for their winery.

Corte Capitani

From their underground cellar near Verona, Corte Capitani crafts only Valpolicella DOC wines blending Corvina, Corvinone and Rondinella. Their portfolio includes quintessential Amarone along with Ripasso and Valpolicella Superiore.

Visitors to Corte Capitani can explore the subterranean barrel room before a tasting of elegant, balanced pours. Their wines pair beautifully with Italian dishes, so don’t miss their seasonal tastings accompanied by cuisine freshly prepared on site.

Azienda Agricola Pilandro

Specializing in the vernacular grapes of Lake Garda, Azienda Agricola Pilandro sustainably grows Corvina, Rondinella and Molinara. Guests can tour the groves surrounding Lake Garda via cycles provided by the winery before tasting their vivid Chiaretto Bardolino DOC.

Pilandro’s fertile Trentino vineyards also produce Nosiola and Marzemino, along with olive oil, honey and jams. Schedule a full immersion tasting experience including fruit products harvested from their biodynamic land.

Bergamini Azienda Agricola

Nestled in the morainic hills near Lake Garda you’ll find Bergamini, cultivating Corvina, Rondinella and other native vines to craft Custoza DOC. The small winery captures unique microclimate characteristics in wines like their Custoza Superiore.

Bergamini harvests grapes from 65-year-old vines to create signature poured at their intimate tasting room and shop. Visitors can also stroll vineyards blossoming with olive and almond trees to fully appreciate this family farm’s dedication to quality local winemaking.

Conti Thun

With deep roots in Trentino’s winemaking aristocracy, Cantina dei Conti Thun produces superior wines on their 18th century estate. Meticulous quality and sustainable production bring expressive wines like aromatic Pinot Grigio and intense Lagrein Riserva to their cellar.

Guests booking tastings and tours experience the noble atmosphere once reserved for Counts, with opportunity to sample vintages not found elsewhere. The winery’s regal past combined with forward-thinking philosophy make it a can’t-miss Lake Garda destination.

Azienda Agricola Comincioli

The Comincioli family passionately operates their winery situated on a ridge in the Valtenesi hills overlooking Lake Garda. Their south-facing slopes and mild breezes are ideal for Corvina, Rondinella, Groppello and Marzemino vines.

Small batch production and extended aging create DOCs like intense Groppello Maestro and refined Valtenesi Rosso Riserva only found at their estate. Visitors booking an attentive tasting will discover wonderful wines that epitomize Lake Garda’s unique terrain.

Lake Garda’s Wine Legacy

Beyond this list of top destinations, the greater Lake Garda region offers over twenty diverse wine appellations and a rich history of viticulture. Wines here have been revered since Ancient Roman times.

Lake Garda provides ideal conditions for cultivation with temperate sub-Mediterranean microclimates, glacial morainic soils, and protection from cold northern winds. Wine production thrives both on the sun-drenched southern shores and hillsides northwest of the lake.

The area is most famous for light, fruity Chiaretto rosés, white Lugana, and garnet-hued reds like Bardolino and Valpolicella. Visitors will also find sparkling Franciacorta, bold Amarone, and exotic indigenous varietals produced by family-run wineries generations in the making.

With so many wonderful wineries and vineyards to discover, Lake Garda entices wine lovers from across the globe. The ability to pair sipping these superior vintages with breathtaking views of the lake and rolling landscapes makes for an unforgettable epicurean escape. Salute!

Top Tips

Best Ways to Experience Lake Garda Wine Country

Here are top tips for traveling through Lake Garda wine country and getting the most of out its world-class wineries:

Rent a Car – Navigating the winding wine roads is easiest by car. Be sure to designate a driver!

Book Tastings – Reserve winery tastings in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Travel in Shoulder Season – Visit in spring and fall to avoid summer crowds and for mild weather.

Pack Light, Breathable Clothes – Wineries can get hot and layering is key for cellars.

Download Offline Maps – Data service can be spotty in the vineyards. Download offline maps.

Take Notes – Jot down bottles you love and snap pics to remember your favorites.

Buy Local Delicacies – Purchase wine country food specialties like olive oil, lemons and honey.

Savor Slowly – Don’t rush tastings; savor and discuss each vintage.

Stay Nearby – Consider staying at an onsite winery inn or nearby agriturismo.

Join Wine Clubs – Have coveted bottles shipped home by joining winery clubs.

Following these tips will help you plan an amazing Italian wine getaway. Lake Garda’s wineries and charm make for an unforgettable pairing. Salute!

FAQs

Q: What makes the wineries and vineyards in Lake Garda special?
A: Lake Garda’s wineries and vineyards offer a unique combination of stunning landscapes and exceptional wine production, creating a truly immersive experience.

Q: How do I reach the best wineries and vineyards in Lake Garda?
A: Many wineries and vineyards in Lake Garda are easily accessible by car or public transportation, making it convenient for visitors to explore the region.

Q: Can I tour the winemaking process at these wineries?
A: Yes, several wineries offer guided tours that take you through the entire winemaking process, from vine to bottle, providing valuable insights into their craftsmanship.

Q: Are there tasting sessions available at Lake Garda’s wineries?
A: Absolutely, most wineries offer tasting sessions where you can sample a variety of their wines, allowing you to discover and appreciate the distinct flavors.

Q: What types of wines are produced in the Lake Garda region?
A: Lake Garda is known for producing a wide range of wines, including reds, whites, and rosés, often crafted from grape varieties unique to the area.

Q: Are there options for food pairing at the wineries?
A: Yes, many wineries provide food pairing experiences that complement their wines, enhancing your overall tasting adventure.

Q: Can I purchase wines directly from the wineries?
A: Certainly, most wineries have on-site shops where you can buy their wines, allowing you to take home your favorites and share your experience.

Q: Are the wineries and vineyards suitable for group visits or events?
A: Yes, many wineries accommodate group visits, private events, and even offer spaces for weddings or special occasions.

Q: Are advance reservations required for tours and tastings?
A: While some wineries welcome walk-ins, it’s recommended to make reservations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Q: Do the wineries offer educational sessions about wine appreciation?
A: Absolutely, many wineries organize educational sessions where you can learn about wine tasting techniques, wine and food pairing, and more.

Q: Are there any organic or biodynamic wineries in Lake Garda?
A: Yes, Lake Garda is home to several wineries that practice organic or biodynamic farming methods, promoting sustainability and natural winemaking.

Q: What is the best time of year to visit Lake Garda’s wineries?
A: The best time to visit is during the grape harvest season in late summer to early autumn, offering a firsthand look at the bustling winemaking process.

Q: Can I explore multiple wineries in a single day?
A: Yes, you can plan your itinerary to visit multiple wineries in a day, especially if they are situated in close proximity to one another.

Q: Are there winery tours suitable for families with children?
A: Some wineries offer family-friendly tours where children can learn about grape cultivation and enjoy non-alcoholic beverages.

Q: What are the signature wines of Lake Garda?
A: Lake Garda is renowned for its Bardolino, Chiaretto, and Lugana wines, each showcasing the unique terroir of the region.

Q: Are English-speaking guides available for tours?
A: Yes, many wineries provide English-speaking guides who can offer insightful information about the winemaking process and history.

Q: Can I visit wineries independently or should I join a guided tour?
A: Both options are available. While guided tours offer in-depth knowledge, some wineries allow self-guided exploration as well.

Q: Are there any wineries known for their architectural beauty?
A: Absolutely, some wineries boast stunning architectural designs that enhance your overall experience, providing a feast for the eyes.

Q: Can I find traditional wineries with a long history in Lake Garda?
A: Yes, Lake Garda is home to traditional wineries with generations of winemaking history, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich viticultural heritage.

Q: How do I plan a wine tour in Lake Garda?
A: Research the wineries you’d like to visit, check their tour availability, make reservations, and create an itinerary that allows you to savor the best of Lake Garda’s wine culture.