Zenato
Brand Description
Founded in 1960 by Sergio & Carla Zenato, the history of the Zenato winery began with Sergio Zenato pioneering development of the banks of Lake Garda, championing the region’s native white varietal, Trebbiano di Lugana. With a passion for the land and a commitment to vigorous research, innovation, and quality improvement, Sergio Zenato strived to craft wines that are known for their quality and consistency. The second generation now carries on the family legacy – their daughter Nadia handles sales and marketing, while their son Alberto oversees all aspects of production. Zenato has expanded their focus throughout the Valpolicella region, becoming one of the premier producers of fine red wines including its award-winning Amarone and Ripassa. Zenato has entered into international markets and received the highest accolades from the wine industry’s leading experts, praise that reflects the way in which the company operates on a daily basis. Today, Zenato continues to look to the future and invest in development projects based in the areas of Valpolicella and Lugana.
Location of Vineyard
Today, Zenato has 95 hectares of vineyards between their two estates. Their Santa Cristina estate in San Benedetto di Lugana enjoys a mild, favorable climate due to the close proximity to Lake Garda. Clay and mineral rich soils, formed by a dramatic evolution during the glacial period, are ideal for the estate’s 40 hectares of Trebbiano di Lugana vines.
Zenato’s Costalunga estate in Valpolicella is located in Sant’Ambrogio, one of the 5 villages in the Valpolicella Classico area of Veneto. The name Costalunga translates to “long coast”, describing the coastal-like property on a hill with an elevation of 450m, which slopes down into the costalunga creek. Calcium & mineral rich soils are characterized by stratifications of sedimentary rocks dating back to the Jurassic period, and laden with the local red soil and rocks known as “Terra Rossa”.
Winemaking and Viticulture Philosophy
Zenato is committed to growing indigenous varieties with high vine density, and every Zenato wine is the fruit of the untiring commitment to excellence, with boundless passion for the territory and the surprising potential of its native vines. Grapes are hand-harvested with great care, keeping their precious nectar intact, and grape must is preserved to promote optimal fermentation. Under Nadia and Alberto’s leadership, the winery operates under a philosophy and mission of quality, passion, and tradition with respect for the legacy they carry, paving a path of excellence for generations to come.
Winery Profile
Winemaker: Alberto Zenato
Total acreage under vine: 175
Founded: 1960
Production: 2000000
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