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Sampling the local wine is a given on any river cruise in Italy and, as the country is well known for its quality vintages, you’re never far from a good bottle. This is never truer than in the Veneto region, home to the romantic cities of Venice and Verona, among others. Regarded as one of the country’s most prestigious wine regions, there is more to the Veneto than Pinot Grigio. For any discerning wine lover heading off on a river cruise in Italy that takes in this area, it is a good idea to get to grips with the local offerings before you go. Here is an introduction to the varietals of this region. Valpolicella Famous on a global scale, these vintages encompass a range of flavours, from soft and amenable to rich and deep. Made from the Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella and Molinara grapes, with Corvina the main denomination in the better quality bottle, they all have a dry, juicy, sour cherry trademark flavour. Four Classes of Valpolicella Valpolicella DOC Affordable it may be but this bottle lacks nothing when it comes to taste. It is fresher and lighter than the other denominations, but many producers tweak with the making techniques so that a deeper and more complex finish is achieved. Valpolicella Ripasso DOC Repasso refers to the way the wine is made - using the ‘re-pass’ method. To achieve the richer flavour, it is made from a fermented basic Valpolicella DOC that is then mixed with a second ferment derived using the grape skins that are left after the production of the Amarone and Recioto. This one is still very quaffable but has a more bitter finish that is often described as raisin-like. Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG Amarone means ‘big bitter’ and while the name may appear to have negative connotations, the finished product was received with gusto on the international stage. It is concentrated but exudes elegance. An expert will pick out cocoa, dark fruit and raisins. Made by drying the grapes first, the wine is big, bold and very strong. Recioto della Valpolicella DOCG This dessert style wine is also made from dried grapes, but for the Recioto the grapes are dried for at least 100 days. Sweet and syrupy, the liquid is then fermented but not for long enough to lose all the sweetness. Soave Producing a very popular white, the Soave region has recently been subject to a bit of a battering in response to increased demand and the overproduction of cheaper, inferior vintages. Thankfully it is regaining its prestige and, to earn its DOC status, the wine now has to be 70% Garganega grape, with the remainder comprising Chardonnay and Trebbiano di Soave. These whites are crisp, refreshing and dry, with citrus notes that make them a favourite among locals. Look out for the Soave Classico DOC, which makes the perfect complement to a relaxed lunch aboard your river cruise in Italy. Bardolino This region is perfect for grape growing. The climate is moderated by the influence of Lake Garda and the regular breezes dry the rain that can be a menace for growers. The wines made here are fruity and spicy, with a juicy acidity that also offers a touch of saltiness. The fine tannins come from the Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella and Molinara grapes. The higher quality bottles are the Bardolino Superiore DOCG. They are 12% alcohol minimum and in order to gain their DOCG status they must be aged for at least a year. Tempted? Book your river cruise in Italy with a specialist tour operator and you can be sure that you will have lots of opportunity to taste these beautiful wines and many more. Author Plate Paul Newman is the Marketing and E-Systems Executive for European Waterways, the UK's most respected provider of all-inclusive luxury barge holidays. If you're looking for a fantastic river cruise in Italy, or cruises to other great destinations, they are the go-to experts. Part of a team of experienced barging aficionados, Paul is first in line to endorse the perks of a slow-paced barge cruise to anyone looking for a unique holiday experience.
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