Run by Luca Degani since 1995, the Cantina Valpantena is now one of Italy’s best co-operatives, with 650 hectares of vineyards that produce excellent quality fruit. Matt Thomson (of Blank Canvas in New Zealand) makes some of the Alpha Zeta wines here and has worked closely with the Cantina since 1999, and with head winemaker Michele Peroni since 2013
Known as the ‘valley of gods’ to the ancient Greeks, the Valpantena is well known for its quality red wines, due partly to the limestone soils, but also because of the cool breeze that blows down the valley from the foothills of the Dolomites.
Torre del Falasco
The Torre del Falasco wines are the standard bearers of this co-operative. The Garganega displays floral and citrus aromas with a rich mineral palate and lifted lemon zest on the finish. Their Valpolicella illustrates why the Valpantena Valley has always been regarded as at least as good as the Classico zone. The Ripasso is a fuller and riper style than Alpha Zeta, as is their Amarone. The `Tesauro` Recioto della Valpolicella is elegant and well-structured, displaying delicate aromas of blackberry jam and spicy hints.
Pergolino
The two Pergolino wines are also made at the Cantina di Valpantena. They offer excellent value for money. The white is made from Garganega, Chardonnay and Trebbiano, while the red is mainly Corvina with Rondinella and Molinara to complete the blend.
