Discover Soave: Italy’s Hidden Wine Gem
Nestled in the picturesque Veneto region, Soave offers a captivating blend of historic charm and world-class wines. This enchanting destination beckons wine lovers and travelers alike with its rolling hills, medieval castles, and renowned white wines.
Towns and Villages
The heart of Soave wine country is dotted with charming towns and villages. Soave itself is a must-visit, with its impressive 14th-century castle and winding cobblestone streets.
Nearby, Monteforte d’Alpone offers stunning vineyard views and traditional wineries. San Bonifacio, slightly larger, serves as a convenient base for exploring the region.
Wine Producers
Soave boasts numerous esteemed wineries, each with its unique character. Pieropan is renowned for its single-vineyard Soaves, while Inama pushes boundaries with modern interpretations.
Gini and Suavia are family-run estates known for their organic practices. For a taste of history, visit Cantina di Soave, a cooperative founded in 1898.
Accommodations
For a truly immersive experience, consider staying at an agriturismo (farm stay) surrounded by vineyards. Corte Adami offers cozy rooms and wine tastings on-site.
In Soave town, Locanda Lo Scudo provides comfortable rooms in a historic setting. For luxury seekers, Byblos Art Hotel Villa Amistà in nearby Corrubbio di Negarine offers artistic flair and five-star amenities.
Dining
Soave’s cuisine perfectly complements its wines. Try Enoteca Il Drago for traditional dishes and an extensive wine list. Locanda ai Capitelli offers refined local fare with a modern twist.
For a casual lunch, Osteria Number One serves delicious pasta and regional specialties. Don’t miss the opportunity to pair your meal with a crisp glass of local Soave wine.
Wine Shops & Bars
Enoteca Il Drago in Soave town offers an extensive selection of local wines and expert advice. Cantina del Castello combines a wine shop with a historic setting inside Soave’s castle.
For a modern wine bar experience, visit Enoteca Soave in the heart of town. They offer wine flights and small plates perfect for sampling local varieties.
Other Shops
Pick up local artisanal products at Bottega del Soave, including olive oils, cheeses, and wine-infused treats. La Dispensa di Soave offers a curated selection of regional specialties and gourmet gifts.
For wine accessories and unique souvenirs, check out Soave Wine Shop near the castle. They stock everything from corkscrews to hand-painted wine glasses.
Attractions
Castello di Soave dominates the skyline and offers panoramic views of the vineyards. Take a guided tour to learn about the region’s history and wine production.
Visit the Chiesa di San Lorenzo for its beautiful frescoes and peaceful atmosphere. The Strada del Vino Soave wine route connects key wineries and scenic viewpoints.
Events
Time your visit for the Soave Versus festival in September, showcasing the best local wines and cuisine. The Festa dell’Uva (Grape Festival) in mid-September celebrates the harvest with parades and tastings.
In May, Cantine Aperte (Open Cellars) allows visitors to explore numerous wineries usually closed to the public. Check local calendars for smaller events throughout the year.
Appellations
The primary appellation is Soave DOC, known for its crisp white wines. Soave Classico represents wines from the original, hillside growing area.
Soave Superiore DOCG denotes wines of higher quality and stricter production standards. Recioto di Soave DOCG is a sweet dessert wine made from dried grapes.
Grape Varieties
Soave’s signature grape is Garganega, accounting for at least 70% of the blend. It produces wines with delicate floral aromas and almond notes.
Other permitted varieties include:
- Trebbiano di Soave
- Chardonnay
- Pinot Bianco
Main Wine Styles
Soave wines come in three main styles:
- Soave DOC: Fresh, light-bodied whites with citrus and almond flavors
- Soave Classico DOC: More complex wines from the historic hillside vineyards
- Soave Superiore DOCG: Fuller-bodied wines with aging potential
Food Specialties
Soave’s cuisine pairs beautifully with its wines. Local specialties include:
- Risotto all’isolana: Rice dish with pork, Parmesan, and rosemary
- Bigoli pasta: Thick spaghetti-like noodles served with various sauces
- Monte Veronese cheese: A PDO-protected hard cheese
Drives & Walks
Explore the picturesque Soave region on foot or by car:
- Soave Castle Walk: A 2-hour hike around the medieval castle and vineyards
- Strada del Vino Soave: A scenic drive through the wine country, stopping at wineries
Itineraries
One-Day Soave Wine Tour
- Morning: Visit Cantina del Castello for a tasting
- Lunch: Enjoy local cuisine at Enoteca Il Drago
- Afternoon: Tour Inama winery and sample their Soave Classico
- Evening: Stroll through Soave’s historic center
Weekend Getaway
- Day 1: Explore Soave town and castle
- Day 2: Visit surrounding villages and wineries in Monteforte d’Alpone
Getting There & Around
The nearest airport to Soave is Verona’s Valerio Catullo Airport, about 30 km away. From there, you can:
- Rent a car for flexibility in exploring the region
- Take a taxi or pre-arranged transfer to Soave
- Use public buses (less convenient but budget-friendly)
Within Soave and surrounding areas:
- Walking is ideal for exploring the town center
- Cycling tours are popular for vineyard visits
- Local buses connect major towns, but schedules can be limited
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) offer ideal weather for wine tasting and outdoor activities. Benefits include:
- Pleasant temperatures for vineyard walks
- Less crowded compared to summer months
- Harvest season in fall for a chance to see wine production
Summer (June-August) can be hot but brings lively festivals. Winter (November-March) is quiet but cozy for indoor tastings.
Sustainability Efforts
Soave’s wine industry is increasingly focusing on sustainable practices:
- Organic viticulture: Many producers are transitioning to organic farming
- Water conservation: Implementing drip irrigation systems
- Biodiversity: Planting cover crops and creating wildlife corridors
Look for wineries with certifications like Equalitas or VIVA for sustainably produced wines.
Language Tips
While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, learning a few Italian phrases can enhance your experience:
- “Salute!” – Cheers!
- “Un bicchiere di vino, per favore” – A glass of wine, please
- “Dove posso fare una degustazione?” – Where can I do a tasting?
Wine-specific terms:
- Cantina – Winery
- Enoteca – Wine shop/bar
- Degustazione – Tasting
Further Resources
For more information on Soave wines and travel:
- Consorzio Tutela Vini Soave – Official consortium website
- Veneto Wine Shop – Online resource for Soave wines
- Visit Italy: Soave – Travel tips and attractions
Consider downloading the “Soave Wine Route” app for self-guided tours and winery information.
