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.

Zenato Family
Zenato Winery & Vineyard
Costalunga Vineyard
Zenato Grapes
Zenato Barrels

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Winery Profile
Owner: The Zenato Family
Winemaker: Alberto Zenato
Total acreage under vine: 175
Founded: 1960
Production: 2000000
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Acclaim
Aromas of crushed strawberries and cherries sit ripe and inviting, accented by hints of tea leaves, tobacco and warm baking spices. The palate sharpens with tart cranberry and sour cherry, balanced by a subtle earthiness. Fresh and structured, the wine hums with bright acidity and a lingering, savory finish. (Best Buy) — acclaim for 2021 Zenato Valpolicella Superiore from Wine Enthusiast, Apr 2025
Vividly tart red berries meet the brightness or orange peel, creating a wine that’s zesty and electric. Crisp acidity keeps it alive, with a clean, citrusy finish. The energy in this glass demands attention. The wine is an ideal pairing for grilled salmon or roasted pepper salad. (Best Buy) — acclaim for 2023 Zenato Bardolino Chiaretto from Wine Enthusiast, Apr 2025
Bright red-fruit preserves lead the way on the nose, layered with roasted coffee notes and delicate shavings of chocolate. The palate shows refined tannins that glide across the tongue, while subtle tea-leaf notes emerge on the finish, adding a gentle herbal complexity. — acclaim for 2020 Zenato Ripassa Valpolicella Superiore from Wine Enthusiast, Apr 2025
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